The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a world-renowned institution that attracts millions of visitors each year. At the heart of its success is the Columbus Zoo Board, a 19-member Board of Directors responsible for overseeing the operations and strategic direction of the zoo.

Who Comprises the Columbus Zoo Board?

The Columbus Zoo Board is a diverse group of community leaders appointed by the Zoo Association, the Mayor of Columbus, and the Franklin County Commissioners. The board members come from various industries, including finance, law, healthcare, and education, bringing their expertise to the table.

Board Member	Affiliation
Jerry Borin	Former President and CEO of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Jack Hanna	Former Director Emeritus of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Tim Bergwall	Executive at Greif, Inc.
Dr. Shelley Payne	President and CEO of Nationwide Children’s Hospital
Abigail Wexner	Philanthropist and Community Leader

The Board’s Responsibilities

The Columbus Zoo Board is responsible for making strategic decisions, setting policies, and overseeing the zoo’s finances. They are committed to ensuring that the zoo continues to make a positive conservation impact locally and globally.

Strategic Decision-Making

The board meets quarterly to discuss the zoo’s operations and make decisions that will shape its future. They consider factors such as visitor experience, animal welfare, conservation initiatives, and financial sustainability.

Policy Setting

The board is responsible for establishing policies that guide the zoo’s operations, ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. These policies cover areas such as animal care, safety, and environmental sustainability.

Financial Oversight

The board oversees the zoo’s financial management, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support the zoo’s mission and long-term viability. They review budgets, approve major expenditures, and monitor the zoo’s financial performance.

The Zoo’s Leadership Team

In addition to the Board of Directors, the Columbus Zoo has a leadership team that includes senior vice presidents responsible for various aspects of the zoo’s operations. These individuals work closely with the board to implement the zoo’s strategic vision and ensure its continued success.

Animal Care and Conservation

The senior vice president of animal care and conservation is responsible for overseeing the well-being of the zoo’s animals and leading the zoo’s conservation initiatives, both locally and globally.

Sustainability and Operations

The senior vice president of sustainability and operations is responsible for managing the zoo’s facilities, infrastructure, and environmental impact, ensuring that the zoo operates in a sustainable and efficient manner.

Education and Guest Experience

The senior vice president of education and guest experience is responsible for developing educational programs and enhancing the visitor experience, ensuring that the zoo’s mission of education and conservation is effectively communicated to the public.

The Zoo’s Accreditation and Impact

The Columbus Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which sets high standards for animal care, conservation, and education. This accreditation is a testament to the zoo’s commitment to excellence and its positive impact on the local and global community.

The zoo’s conservation initiatives include supporting conservation and research projects both locally and worldwide, contributing to the preservation of endangered species and the protection of natural habitats.

Conclusion

The Columbus Zoo Board is a crucial component of the zoo’s success, providing strategic leadership, financial oversight, and policy guidance to ensure that the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium continues to be a world-class institution. The board’s diverse expertise and commitment to conservation, education, and research are essential to the zoo’s ongoing success and impact.

References:
– Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Board of Directors Meeting Minutes
– Columbus Zoo and Aquarium Leadership Team
– Tim Bergwall, Executive at Greif, Inc., Joins Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s Board of Directors
– Franklin County, Ohio Board and Commission Meetings
– Former Columbus Zoo Executives Have Been Indicted