AZA, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, has launched the Director’s Edge executive leadership development series, with its first cohort members including CEOs and directors of AZA-accredited zoos, aquariums, and related organisations.
The new professional development series helps executives address complex organisational dynamics, changing workforce expectations, operational issues, and the rising need for strategic, human-centric leadership within the AZA community.
During the year-long programme, Director’s Edge members will take part in experiential learning, networking, reflection, and executive-level skill development.
Dan Ashe, president and CEO for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, says: "I’d like to congratulate this inaugural Director’s Edge cohort.
"AZA looks forward to supporting these CEOs and directors as they strengthen their leadership, build resilient organizations and shape the future of the zoo and aquarium profession.
"The impact of their dedication to lifelong learning will not only benefit their future career paths, but will positively impact their employees, the animals in their care and the visitors that walk through their doors."
Canopy Strategic Partners is the sponsor of Director’s Edge 2026.
"Investing in our community's leaders and ensuring they have access to resources, tools and best practices continues to be a priority in Canopy’s work," says David Walsh, president of Canopy Strategic Partners.
"The future of the field depends on successful leadership, and our team is excited to support this group of executive leaders on their journey."
Meaningful growth opportunities
The members of the inaugural Director’s Edge cohort are:
- Susan Altrui, zoo director, Little Rock Zoo
- Travis Burke, president and CEO, Georgia Aquarium
- Leigh Clayton, director, New York Aquarium
- Molly Deese, president of the aquariums, Herschend Family Entertainment
- Cristal Torres DeHerrera, acting president and CEO, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance
- Jilian Fazio, director, Turtle Back Zoo
- Melissa Felder, interim executive director, CuriOdyssey
- Molly Gezella-Baranczyk, executive director, American Association of Zoo Veterinarians
- Jessica Hart, president and CEO, ZooMontana
- Michael Hogan, executive director, Oregon Zoo Foundation
- Chris Jenkins, executive director, Virginia Zoological Park
- Ray Karasevich, president and CEO, Assiniboine Park Zoo
- Max Lakes, director, Peoria Zoo
- Nick Newby, director, White Oak Conservation Center
- Jose Romano, president and CEO, Zoo Miami Foundation
- Dr. Luis Soto Rendon, CEO / director general, Zoo Guadalajara
- Clint Taylor, director, North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores
- Jackson Thompson, zoo director, Dickerson Park Zoo
- Larry Warner, aquarium director, North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
- Jessica Whiton, curator, Big Bear Alpine Zoo
- Brenda Young, zoo director, The David Traylor Zoo of Emporia
- Joanna Zazzali, director, North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher
See also: From accreditation to action: AZA’s impact on the future of conservation
Additional virtual professional development opportunities for directors and CEOs will be offered throughout the year, and details will be announced soon.
For more information, please click here.
Recently, AZA was honoured by Visit Tampa Bay’s Meeting the Moment programme, which celebrates outstanding meetings and conventions that make a positive impact in Tampa Bay. This recognises AZA's commitment to sustainability and community involvement.
Top image (left to right): Cristal Torres DeHerrera, Michael Hogan, Jessica Whiton, Melissa Felder, Molly Gezella-Baranczyk, Jackson Thompson, Leigh Clayton, Luis Soto Rendon, Clint Taylor, Jessica Hart, Jilian Fazio, Molly Deese, Susan Altrui and Brenda Young
