Celebrating Our 2025 ZAA Award Winners!
We’re delighted to recognize the exceptional individuals and organizations that have gone above and beyond in advancing animal welfare, conservation, and education. The 2025 Award Recipients exemplify dedication, innovation, and leadership across all aspects of the zoological community—creating meaningful connections between people and wildlife while driving impactful change for species around the world.
Long Term Commitment & Significant Propagation to a single species
Small/Medium Facility: Animal Adventure Park and Preserve for their incredible work with their African Lion pride!
Large/Macro Facility: Metro Richmond Zoo for their incredible work with the Diana Monkey!
Ex Situ Conservation Award
Small/Medium Facility: Twin Pine Farm & Exotics Conservation Foundation for their groundbreaking Aardwolf Conservation Project!
Large/Macro Facility: San Antonio Zoo for their Conchos Pupfish Recovery Project!
In Situ Conservation Award
Small/Medium Facility: Kids Saving the Rainforest for their groundbreaking work addressing an emerging parasite threatening Costa Rican primates!
Large/Macro Facility: Cheetah Conservation Fund for their Human-Wildlife Conflict Resolution Program using Livestock Guarding Dogs!
Excellence in Breeding Award
Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo for their success with the Ángel de la Guarda Island Speckled Rattlesnake!
Excellence in Conservation Education Award
Small/Medium Facility: The Feline Conservation Foundation for their Basic & Advanced Wild Feline Husbandry Course!
Large/Macro Facility: Safari Niagara for their Junior Zookeeper Program!
Comprehensive Immersion Exhibit Award
Small/Medium Facility: Cougar Mountain Zoo for their Rainforest Discovery Education Center!
Large/Macro Facility: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium for their remarkable new North America Trek!
Animal Exhibit Award of Excellence
Small/Medium Facility: The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College for Rajah’s Retreat!
Large/Macro Facility: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium for the Ohio Center for Wildlife Conservation!
Lifetime Achievement Award Recipient: Jim Fouts
Young Professional of the Year Award Recipient: Julia Wilder, Executive Director & Co-Founder, ZDR3
Each of this year’s award winners demonstrates outstanding commitment and innovation in animal care, education, and conservation—setting a standard that inspires continued progress across the community.
For more information and to explore past award recipients, visit our website. Congratulations to all honorees on this well-deserved recognition!
