ANNUAL REPORT 2022
THINK GLOBAL, ACT LOCAL.
THINK GLOBAL, ACT LOCAL.
On the cover:
Zoo Miami Foundation (ZMF) is the 501(c)(3) non-profit support organization for Zoo Miami. Backed by loyal donors, visitors, and members, ZMF supports Zoo Miami’s mission-driven initiatives and enhancements to encourage an appreciation for the world’s wildlife and to conserve it for future generations. Thanks to more than 22,000 member households and community support, ZMF operates robust learning experiences, conservation initiatives, and supports capital projects that bolster guest experience and animal welfare.
Zoo Miami Foundation 12400 SW 152 St Miami, FL 33177
Editors
Phone: (305) 255-5551
www.zoomiami.org
Amanda Bolanos, Cindy Castelblanco, and Marie Hernandez
Contributors
Lissette Chatel, Marena Costa, Jamie Lassonde, Ron Magill, Bill Moore, Alexandra Guevara, Andrea Obregon, Joshua Olmsted, Carlos Simoes, Melissa Wetzel, Jose Romano, Emely Medina and Ronald Stayton
Photography
Ron Magill and Nicole Hunnewell
Design
Suzanne Crossland, Designs by Su, LLC
© 2023 Zoo Miami Foundation. Reproduction of the whole or any part of the contents of this publication without written permission is prohibited.
Chair: Eric J. Eikenberg
Chair-Elect: Jose F. Diaz
Past Chair: Jose C. Romano
Treasurer: John V. Chibbaro
Secretary: Brittnie R. Bassant
ZMF President & CEO: William W. Moore
Zoo Miami Director: Will Elgar
Alan Atkinson
Mary L. Barley
Jose F. Barros
Brittnie R. Bassant
Sandy Batchelor
Alexander E. Binelo
John V. Chibbaro
Jose F. Diaz
D. Diane Dickhut
Eric J. Eikenberg
William Elgar
Armando Fernandez
Robert P. Furniss-Roe
Michael R. Heithaus, Ph.D.
Victor H. Herrera
Philip F. Kushlan
George L. Leser
Daniella Levine Cava
Daniel J. Licciardi
Sharon A. MacIvor, DVM
Katharine A. McDonald
William W. Moore
Maria I. Nardi
Jorge L. Navarro
Samantha Pencar
Ann E. Pope
Martha H. Rabbitt
Jose C. Romano
Michael N. Rosenberg, DDS
Merrett R. Stierheim
Peter J. Vandenberg
Christopher A. Walters
Rodney L. Barreto
Vincent L. Berkeley
Jennifer Boin Getz
Roger M. Carlton
Harlan S. Chiron, MD
Ambassador Sue M. Cobb
Linda Coll
William J. Gallwey, III, Esq.
Robert W. Hudson
Sherrill W. Hudson
Bernard Klepach
David Konfino
James A. Kushlan, Ph.D.
John J. Lowell
Manny J. Rodriguez, PE
Edward R. Soto
Eric J. Stephens
Lawrence O. Turner, Jr.
Diana Udel
Ana VeigaMilton, Esq.
Andrew H. Weinstein, Esq.
When I first joined Zoo Miami Foundation (ZMF) in 2014, I was inspired and encouraged by the work and mission of the organization, which was then known as the Zoological Society of Florida. Now, nine years later, my term as CEO comes to an end. While so much has changed at Zoo Miami over the years, our mission to share the wonders
I am confident that the future of Zoo Miami Foundation rests in capable hands, from the passionate staff, loyal volunteers, generous supporters, and of course, incoming CEO, Jose Romano. Jose steps into this new role following over two decade as a Zoo Miami supporter, including a two-year term as ZMF Board Chair. He brings with him a true dedication to wildlife, and I look forward to seeing what the organization accomplishes under his leadership.
While I am not typically one to look back on the past, I cannot help but reflect on this amazing journey. Over the last nine years, I have witnessed the incredible growth of Zoo Miami, from the openings of Florida: Mission Everglades, a new Entry Plaza, and the Conservation Action Center, to surpassing our one-million visitors milestone and countless successful education programs and events. The ZMF and Zoo Miami staff taught me to celebrate small victories as well as large ones and together, we endured challenges and built on successes.
My sincere gratitude goes out to Zoo Miami and ZMF staff for their dedication and inspiring work over the years, and to our loyal supporters for making it all possible. It has been an honor to be part of the Zoo Miami family and history.
WILLIAM W. MOORE Past President and CEOWhat an exciting time it is to be part of Zoo Miami Foundation (ZMF). As a longtime Zoo Miami supporter, I feel truly fortunate to be joining as the new President & CEO at a time of great success, with more growth just on the horizon.
I have many memories at Zoo Miami, beginning with my childhood visits when it was known as the Crandon Park Zoo, to spending weekends with my own kids and enjoying many years of my favorite event, Feast with the Beasts. Now, it brings me great pride and joy to have this new opportunity to support the organization’s mission from the inside.
Zoo Miami and ZMF have a history of exceptional guest experience, animal care, and conservation efforts. As we look to the future, my goals over the next five years are supporting our mission by raising additional dollars annually, elevating the endowment, and working with our partners to develop a joint strategic plan and bold new vision for the zoo. I cannot wait to bring my ideas to the table to work alongside the creative and passionate zoo staff, dedicated Board of Directors, and loyal supporters.
Our plans to take Zoo Miami to the next level are nothing short of inspiring and I am most excited about the design and construction of the new Animal Hospital, set to open in 2027/2028. This project is special to me as it was selected as a key project at a board retreat. It’s an extraordinary feeling to be present for the genesis of such an impactful project, and then to see it come to fruition. Not only will this state-of-the-art facility allow our Animal Health team to provide top-notch treatment for our animal residents like never before, but it will also serve as an educational resource for students and accommodate guests so that the public can see the amazing work of our veterinary team. Of course, in striving for true growth, we must not only focus on new initiatives and projects, but build upon existing ones in which we see potential. With a Sumatran tiger habitat expansion in the works and a new giraffe-feeding station, we will be able to bring our guests even closer to the animals they love. Meanwhile, our Learning Experiences department continues to find new ways to connect with our community with excellent programs that educate and inspire children of all ages – or, as we like to call them, future conservationists.
As I step into this new role as CEO of ZMF, I aim to lead with trustworthiness, transparency, fairness, and fun. I hope to learn as much from the team as they do from me, and I thank them for the opportunity to join their mission. I would also like to thank outgoing ZMF President & CEO William “Bill” Moore, who has led the organization through an incredible last nine years. Adventure awaits! I will see you all around the zoo.
JOSE C. ROMANO President and CEOZoo Miami is truly unique as the largest zoological garden in Florida and the only sub-tropical zoo in the continental United States. The zoo cares for more than 2,500 animals and provides guests with a close-up view of diverse wildlife in a tropical setting. As part of our mission to share the wonder of wildlife and help conserve it for generations to come, we continue to improve and develop, replacing outdated facilities and keeping pace with the ever-changing science behind animal care. The ambitious Connecting for Life Capital Campaign aims to raise $43 million to achieve these objectives.
RECENTLY COMPLETED:
Built an in-county facility to treat injured, ill, or otherwise imperiled sea turtles.
LOOKING FORWARD:
Setting new standards for animal care and guest experience with an expanded footprint and viewing pavilion for critically endangered Sumatran tigers.
On July 6, 2022, Zoo Miami and Zoo Miami Foundation hosted the grand opening and ribbon-cutting for a new Sea Turtle Hospital. Zoo Miami worked closely with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on this facility, funded in part by Zoo Miami Foundation members and donors like you.
The facility is only the second sea turtle hospital in Miami-Dade and the only one able to treat fibropapillomatosis (FP), a potentially deadly disease found in sea turtles that causes cauliflower-like tumors on the skin and internal organs. Our goal is to provide world-class veterinary care leading to the rehabilitation and release of sea turtle patients.
The Sea Turtle Hospital is a 1,600 square foot facility consisting of five saltwater enclosures serving as “recovery beds” for up to 16 sea turtles at a time. All five species of sea turtles found in Miami-Dade County are listed as Threatened or Endangered. Our team can treat sea turtles who are suffering from boat strikes, fishing line entanglement, animal attacks, or have become cold-stunned.
Our most famous patient of 2022 was Baymax, a 388-pound female loggerhead found with a severe wound to her front left flipper. Zoo Miami’s team helped stabilize her and provided intensive care until a longstanding infection led us to make the difficult decision to euthanize her.
Although this was a difficult time for our team, we hope those who followed her story become inspired to learn more about sea turtles and help us protect these magnificent creatures.
Zoo Miami’s iconic tiger habitat was part of our initial footprint when it opened in 1980. Since 2013, this habitat has been dedicated to Sumatran tigers. Found only on the Indonesian island of Sumatra, these tigers are the smallest subspecies and are instantly recognizable by the “beard” around their faces and dense stripe pattern. They are listed as Critically Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species.
Our goal is to continue to set new standards for animal care and visitor experience while highlighting the importance of tiger conservation. This campaign will support a new habitat with expanded footprint, including an additional outdoor yard and pavilion with nose-to-nose viewing of these magnificent animals. When the habitat is complete, our tigers will have more space to roam and the guest experience will be enhanced to build greater connections.
Thank You to our Founding Donors
The Atkinson Family
Shelley B. Daniel Rutherford
Helen O. Donaldson
Cynthia W. Knight
Anthony R. Abraham Foundation
Esserman Family Foundation
We take great pride in having over 22,000 member households. That translates to over 90,000 members! Being a member comes with many perks, including unlimited daily visits for the year, exclusive discounts and benefits within the park, and discounted access to various local and national attractions. One way we acknowledge our members is through the recognizable membership lanyards they receive, symbolizing their affiliation and impressive knowledge about our beloved Zoo Miami. To learn more, visit zoomiami.org/become-a-member.
“We became members to save money on all the trips we took to Zoo Miami and maximize the number of times we could go throughout the year. Our favorite thing about being a member is the spontaneous Saturday mornings with no plans that turn into fun days of feeding giraffes and seeing the animals at the zoo!”
- Luis and Laura Diaz, Zoo MembersPremier Members help us support capital projects, improve care and enrichment for animals at the zoo, and create educational experiences for our guests. Join and help us pursue our mission of sharing the wonder of wildlife and conserving it for generations to come!
“Zoo Miami itself is my absolute favorite, but a close second is the Adopt An Animal program. I really enjoy purchasing and giving away Keeper Packages to family, friends, and organizations. Wait…a close second is Feast with the Beasts! Wait… there are too many awesome programs to mention. They are all my favorites. I am a Premier Member because I appreciate the opportunity to support the Foundation’s conservation efforts. As a great believer in education, the Premier Membership helps provide funding for educational programs for our children and children’s children. These educational programs help instill a passion for wildlife and conservation and I’m proud to support them.”
- Richard Glass, Premier MemberWild Bunch is a group of like-minded individuals dedicated to championing wildlife conservation and bringing community awareness to the mission of Zoo Miami Foundation. Our members are up-and-coming community leaders with a passion for animals, conservation, and education. They host annual volunteer opportunities, networking events, animal encounters, and have priority access to Zoo Miami activities.
Each year, Wild Bunch members raise funds to support an improvement project of their choosing. In July, we celebrated the installation of an enrichment log at the North American River Otter habitat with a special evening at the zoo. Guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres followed by a walk to the habitat to see the new project unveiled. After some initial trepidation, the otters soon explored the addition and have enjoyed swimming over, under, and through their tunnels ever since.
Each year, Wild Bunch members raise funds to support an improvement project of their choosing.
Zoo Miami Foundation’s Learning Experiences department offers a variety of programs for all age groups. Classrooms, camps, community groups, and families can learn about wildlife, nature, and conservation through interactive STEAM experiences with our talented zoo educators.
presented by the José Milton Foundation
Zoo Miami’s Animal Fun Factory is a one-of-a-kind experience for guests. Families participate in hands-on creative play, building enrichment to promote the natural behavior of our animal residents. Guests help create birthday ‘cakes’ to hide treats for a tiger, special packages for our orangutans to explore, and much more. This space helps create an opportunity for guests to connect with the animals while learning more about their welfare at the zoo. The Animal Fun Factory is generously supported by The José Milton Foundation, Florida Panthers Foundation and The Kirk Foundation.
The Learning Experiences team offer a variety of programs, including school outreach, virtual classroom visits, Nature Play, Earth Agents, and our popular Summer and Seasonal Camps.
We were grateful to host 1,829 campers this year from ages 5 – 12 to learn about environmental science through hands-on and project-based activities. The Batchelor Foundation, Little Swimmers, Main Street Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics, and BNI Business Leaders made it possible for us to award 95 camp scholarships.
Thanks to our generous supporters, Zoo Miami Foundation programs impacted
950,471 individuals throughout the course of the year.
Thank you to our donors who make these Learning Experiences possible.
• The Alliance for Florida’s National Parks
• Assurant, Inc.
• Bank of America Merrill Lynch
• The Batchelor Foundation
• BNI Business Leaders
• Carnival Corporation
• David M. Cohn
• Florida Panthers Foundation
• Jane Goodman
• Little Swimmers
• Main Street Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics, LLC
• PNC Foundation
• Sheila A. Shapiro
• The Shepard Broad Foundation
• Twin Cities Public Television, Inc.
• Walmart, Inc.
• The Wildflower Foundation
• Williamson Automotive Group
We are exceedingly proud of our Conservation Teen Scientists and the dedication they show to volunteering at the zoo. High school students ages 14 – 18 commit to a five-week training course and regular volunteer schedule throughout the year. Students are able to develop skills including public speaking, problem solving, collaboration, and communication to prepare them to enter college and the workforce. They serve as important ambassadors for the zoo and can often be found at animal habitats sharing their knowledge with zoo guests.
CTS students gave 22,948 hours of their time to the zoo this year!
We are grateful to these students for their engagement and support.
I’m a pretty shy person, but before I was at CTS, I was a lot more shy!
You have to talk to a lot of people you don’t know, and it helped me build out my communication skills. Now my job requires many of the skills I learned when I was with CTS, like educating the public and teamwork.
- Rose PerezZoo Miami is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Accreditation means we have passed a rigorous application and inspection process and met or exceeded AZA’s standards for animal health and welfare, fundraising, staffing, and involvement in global conservation efforts.
We are committed to providing the best care for our animals and are dedicated to the development and application of best practices in animal health and welfare. Learn more on page 13 about some of the ways we enrich the lives of zoo residents and use positive reinforcement for stress-free medical care.
ACCREDITED BY THE
Our otters love a new treat – thanks to Crab du Jour, several otter species at Zoo Miami received fresh blue crabs to try! Some species, like the giant river otters, enjoyed actually eating the crabs. Others, like the North American river otters, had a great time playing with them. Either way, they serve as important enrichment designed to physically and mentally stimulate our animals.
How do you get 40 Caribbean flamingos to the veterinary hospital for their annual wellness exams? You bring the hospital to them! Our Animal Health team set up a mobile clinic in a corral adjacent to the habitat for examinations including weights, blood samples, and an overall check of body condition. Other than some minor eye issues and foot issues that will be monitored, the flamingos were all in good condition and successfully returned to their habitat immediately following the procedure.
Peggy, Zoo Miami’s 45-year-old African elephant, participated in a voluntary x-ray as part of the Animal Health Team’s preventative medicine program. The Animal Science team works closely with elephants to minimize any possible stress from medical procedures and allow them to voluntarily contribute to their own health care. In this case, Peggy is trained to present her feet so that our veterinarians can capture x-ray images needed for her exam and help maintain healthy feet. Special thanks to Dr. Rodney Schnellbacher, Ryan Cotton, and Jennifer Carril for their hard work!
Barney, a 28-year-old western lowland gorilla, was diagnosed with a mild case of pneumonia. Through operant conditioning and positive reinforcement training, staff members successfully trained Barney to sit still while presenting his nose. Our Animal Science team placed the nebulizer in front of his nostrils while he took deep breaths to inhale medications. Treatments took place for several weeks and proved very beneficial to Barney’s recovery.
In January, Keesha the sloth bear celebrated her 26th birthday. Her cake was made of non-toxic materials with a variety of treats including blackberries, strawberries, blueberries, grapes, and yogurt. At 26, she is believed to be the oldest sloth bear in any zoo in North America.
New babies bring a sense of excitement and joy to our Animal Science team and guests – especially those who are contributing to endangered species populations. This year, Zoo Miami was proud to welcome several into our zoo family.
A Saddlebill stork hatched for the first time in Zoo Miami’s history in January. The successful hatching of this chick was the culmination of years of effort to breed this sensitive species. Saddlebill storks are one of the world’s largest storks, standing nearly 5 feet high with a wingspan that can exceed 8 feet.
In May, we welcomed three Nyala antelopes within a 5-day window. Nyala are medium sized antelopes commonly found in the woodlands and thickets of Southern Africa. They are generally a social antelope found in herds numbering as many as 30 individuals.
Zoo Miami welcomed a critically endangered white-cheeked gibbon – only the second born in the zoo’s history. These endangered primates are found in the canopy of tropical forests in Southern Asia. They are known for their high-pitched territorial calls that can be heard over great distances in the forest – and easily throughout the zoo!
In April, a critically endangered addax antelope joined our herd. There are only a few hundred addax left in the wild, making this one of the most critically endangered animals in the world. Closely managed herds like those at Zoo Miami give this species a much better chance of survival for future generations.
On a normal zoo day, volunteers can be found chatting with our guests, sharing their knowledge of our animal ambassadors, assisting at the Wacky Barn, and even preparing diets at the Nutrition Center.
Nixza Abrante
Betty Alexander
Tiana Alexander
Gabriel Almedo
Jennifer Almonacid
Luis Alvarez
Cindy Amar
Ellen Anderson
Mario Arnaez
Cristina Avila
David Babcock
Juan Badell
Tatiana Bahamon
Diane Bayard
Claudia Becker
Emilio Bermudez
Chris Bernt
Ann Biegen
Sherrie Bieniek
Lynn Binstock
Barbara Blank
Jason Bollack
Charles Brannock
Vicki Brown
Lori Cameron
Danielle Carman
Cathy Carter
Kaila Charran
Nadika Charran
Lina Chiappone
Yvano Chillocci
Carole Cholasta
Dennis Chow
Fernando Cobiella
Raul Concepcion
Ines Curbelo
Elizabeth Curry
Maria De Sousa
Emmy Dech
Ron Dech
Anthony del Pino
Lisa Dempsey
Soraima Deniz
Dona Depriest
Osvaldo Diaz
Diane Dickhut
Linda Dishler
Helen Donaldson
Mila Dorotea
Richard Eckert
Ayelen Escaurido
Carol Farber
Ann Marie Gaudino
Joshua Goldman
Gloria Golightly
Angela Gonzalez
Mark Graham
Carol Green
Christine Greenman
Dorothy Griggs
Stanley Griggs
Barbara Guerrero
Kathy Hagenbrok
Michal Harris
Cathy Harvey
George Harvey
Judy Hayes
Nancy Hembree
Armando Hernandez
Daniela Herrera
Bob Hibner
Lucy Hill
Barbara Hoffmann
Jean Hollingsworth
Patricia Houle
Brian Jackson
Patty Jacobi
Ramona Jordan
Kristine Kadlac
Lawrence Kaplan
Laura Kasperski
Linda Kelly
Ernest Klein
Karen Klores
Michayla Konen
Zsofia Kordovan
Keith Landon
Lisa Lashbrook
Marguerite Leigh
Maria Linares
Enrique Lopez
Nerie Lopez
Marcell Luis Maurell
Paul Lundblad
Libby Mahaffey
Susan Mainguy
Lisette Manzanares
Dayanara Marin
Jamie Marroquin
Donald McClaskey
Dan McGillicuddy
Adie Miller
Terry Mraz
Natalia Navarrete
Sherri Pensler
David Perez-Clavijo
Avery Petersen
Vivian Pons
Suellen Powell
Fifi Quintans
Susan Rabin
Sandy Rahman
Priscilla Ramirez
Arlene Randall
Japonesa Read
Regina Rhodes
Donna Rich
Bruce Richmond
Pat Richmond
Michael Robert
Mary-Keen Robinson
Brent Robles
Jeny Rodriguez
Mary Rose
Bev Rosenberg
Cheri Rosenberg
Ellen Rosenberg
Pauline Rosenblatt
Elizabeth Rumsey
Judy Rzeszutko
Irelma Salazar
Ronnie Scherer
Joyce Schiffman
Keith Scott
Laura Seff
Sandy Seidenman
Sandi Siegel
Sima Siegel
Amanda Snyder
Ana Spoerl
Stephen Spoerl
Caroline Sterns
Shelby Stiens
Sandra Stoddard
Dorothy Thomas
Rosemarie Twinam
DeDee Van Horn
Carolina Vargas
Jasmine Ventura
Christine Vergona
Sandra Viaud
Mary Vidal
Deanna Villalobos
Elyse Waronker
Maurice White
Margo Williams
dedicate their time, talents, and skills to Zoo Miami and Zoo Miami Foundation.
Michael Feland
Federico Fiallo
Lexi Figueroa
Carol Fink
Bonnie Flanagan
Jeanie Fousek
Angelica Garcia del Rio
Barbara Gary
Maria Norona
Marling Obando
Sidney Palau
Douglas Parker
Alexander Patterson
Jeri Payne
Adriana Pena Galvez
Al Pensler
Taylor Willig
Lisa Wilson
Janice Winderbaum
Jennifer Wood
Conservation of wildlife is at the forefront of what we do. Our staff is involved in flagship initiatives to support local species in our own backyard.
Pine rockland is a globally critically imperiled habitat with a rich diversity – less than 5% of the original habitat in Florida remains. Zoo Miami is home to the Richmond Tract. There are still new species being discovered frequently in the remaining fragments!
Although it is protected from future development, this habitat faces the threat of invasive plant species. Zoo Miami staff, the Environmentally Endangered Lands program, and Miami-Dade County Natural Areas Management work together to protect the pine rockland from disturbance and help control the invasive plant species which threaten it.
The mission of the Ron Magill Conservation Endowment is to provide support for in-situ conservation projects, the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife, scholarships for wildlife conservation-based career paths, and programming designed to educate and inspire the public about the beauty and diversity of our natural world. To date, the endowment has provided hundreds of thousands of dollars to these efforts and continues to provide tens of thousands of dollars annually. In 2022, over $100,000 was provided to a variety of organizations in support of conservation efforts around the globe and in our own backyard. Among those receiving support, critical seed money was provided to renowned conservationist, Dr. Greg Rasmussen of the Painted Dog Conservation Project in Zimbabwe, to establish a research laboratory in support of his important work to save the highly endangered African Painted Dog. In addition, significant funding was provided to
the Institute for the Conservation of Neotropical Carnivores in support of jaguar conservation in Brazil and to the Mara-Meru Cheetah Project in Kenya to support cheetah conservation in East Africa. Closer to home, the endowment purchased a new wildlife ambulance for the Pelican Harbor Seabird Station in support of the hundreds of native animals that they rescue, treat, and release each year.
Funding is also provided to support a variety of scholarships and grants designed to encourage conservation-based careers. They include annual scholarships to a University of Florida graduate student in the Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Department, a conservation scholarship to a South Florida high school senior or college freshman with a conservation-related major, and research grants to the Zoo Conservation Outreach Group at the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, as well as the Florida Association of Zoos and Aquariums, to those doing work in Tropical America or the Caribbean.
Wildlife conservation is much more than simply protecting animals. It is about protecting the quality of life for humans as well. From the insects that pollinate the plants which provide us with our food, to the corals that help filter our oceans and protect our coastlines, to the rainforests that help produce the air that we breathe and the medicines that help cure our illnesses, the future of wildlife and wild places has a direct impact on the future for all of us. By conserving and protecting wildlife, we are indeed conserving and protecting ourselves.
~ Ron MagillZoo Miami Foundation is deeply grateful to the individual, corporate, and foundation donors who generously support our mission. We applaud the dedication and patronage of our donors, members, and partners who have invested in one of our community’s shining assets.
$100,000 - $249,999
Analia and Armando Fernandez
Robin and Marc Osheroff
$50,000 - $99,999
Ambassadors Sue and Charles Cobb
Cynthia W. Knight
Libby Madden
Philip Porter
Birkleigh and Christopher Walters
Marta S. Weeks
$25,000 - $49,999
Sandy Batchelor
Alicia Celorio
George L. Leser
Katharine and David McDonald
Ana VeigaMilton and Cecil Milton
$10,000 - $24,999
M. Ivette and Alan Atkinson
Brittnie R. Bassant
Jordan and Jason Bell
Martha and Bruce Clinton
Shelley B. Daniel Rutherford and J. Larry Rutherford
The Forte Family
Susan Hollenstein and Howard Ross
H. Richard Quadracci Cabrera
Joanna and Jose Romano
Michael Schur
Marcy and Mark Smith
Pat and Chip Vandenberg and Lauren Manley
$5,000 - $9,999
Mary L. Barley
Noelle and Brett Bivens
David M. Cohn, M.D.
Sharon A. MacIvor-DeMaria, DVM and Joseph DeMaria
Chris Feasel
Cynthia and Bertram
“Chico” Goldsmith
Jane Goodman
Sally A. Heyman
Daniel J. Licciardi
Jill and William Moore
Anna K. Rentz
Diane and Michael Rosenberg
Sheila and Ira Shapiro
Sandra and Paul Steinberg
Carol and G. Ed Williamson
$1,000 - $4,999
Anonymous
Karen and Wray Abercrombie
Sandra M. and Herbert E. Allenson
Fredrica and Ray Applebaum
Mary E. Baldwin
Isabelle Benditte Pike and Russell Pike
Devina and Anmol Bhandari
Heather and Philip Bottrell
William P. Burke
Theodore Caplow and Nathalie Manzano
Mike Chambers
Betsy and John Chibbaro
Stephen W. DeFilippis
The Honorable Jose and Mrs. Maria Diaz
John Edwards
Tonya and Eric Eikenberg
Diana L. Fitzgerald
Lourdes E. Gomez and Marcelino Miyares, Ph.D.
Karen Gomez
Lorena and James Hartenstein
Barbara Havenick
Olga and Victor Herrera
Robert Hertzberg
Kyle Hines
Patricia Jayson
France-Marie and Sheldon Jordan
Willieme and Joseph Killick
Kirsten N. Hines and James A. Kushlan, Ph.D.
Diane and Dennis MacInnes
James R. Marrone
Matthew C. Martin
The Honorable Joe A. Martinez
Stacy and Kionne McGhee
Kathryn Medford
Roger Miles
Nadine G. Miller
Alec Milton
Miriam and Azorides Morales
Elizabeth Ann and Anthony Morgenthau
Jeffrey L. Moyer
Natalie Muniz
Brian Nathanson
Roshni Neslage
Grace Wang, M.D. and Steven Pabalan, M.D.
Ann and Richard Pope
Martha H. Rabbitt
Kevin Rader
Raquel A. Regalado
Elaine Klein and Leonard C. Roberts
Jeffrey D. Rubens
Martin E. Segal, LL.B., J.D.
Roni and Stephen Sheldon
Selina and Shelby Smith
T.J. Valdez
Patricio Velez
Rachel Watkins Rogers
Josh Weinstock
Ward B. Whitten
Patrick Wilson
Ann Landau and Ira S. Zweifler
$500 - $999
Norma Jean Abraham
Patricia and Abdulwahab Aldousany
Jennifer Allen
John Anderson
Edward Ballweg
Helen Torres and José Francisco Barros, DDS
Sheffield Bessellieu
Leslie and William Biggs
Claudia and Alexander Binelo
Robin and I. Barry Blaxberg
Margarita Sahli-Blaya and Max Fernando Blaya
Misty L. Buck-Iglesias
Jorge Calle and Elizabeth Cruz
Karen and Drew Cashmere
Richard P. Cole
M. Camila Cote
Patrick Darcey
Sandra and Kevin Davis
John Defossez
Kyle Dill
Helen O. Donaldson
Elizabeth A. Hale and Ryan W. Esch
Yauska and Julio Fernandez
Britney Freeney
Brett Gaer
Richard R. Glass
Bella Goldstein
Edmond Harbour
Patricia and Donovan Hayes
Steven Henriquez
Rita and William Hernandez
Eva and Olav Hinke
Brian Joseph
Jordan and Matthew Kever
Jackie Larkin
Eric Laumeister
Subbarao Lef
Elizabeth Lisich
Liliana and Leonel Maresma
Sara and Ivan Mladenovic
Jay Montague
Reese Moorhead
John Moorhead
Peter Mosheim
Paola and Tony Newell
Michael A. Nuzzo, Esq.
Lori and John Ohrnberger
Ariel Penzer Milgroom and Jeremy D. Milgroom
Natalie Perez
Adrienne Phoenix
Evangelia and Carlos Prevolis
Amrit Punjabi
Esta and Lewis Ress
Michael Reynolds
Sandra and Miguel Rishmague
Lizmarie and Daniel Rodriguez
Rimma Aronov and Semyon A. Rozenberg
Susan G. Rutrough
Judith A. Saltzman
Gary Saltzman
Tara Saltzman
Cinthya and Daniel Sanchez
Kirsten Schwarz
David Shear
Jodi and Stuart Sheldon
Julie and Gary Simon
Adelaide J. Skoglund and William Legg
Kathleen and Don Sokolik
Francine and Herbert Tobin
Melissa and David Wetzel
Dustin Woodhead
Maria J. Wright
Marilyn Zuniga, O.D.
$250 - $499
Marvin R. Allen
Paula and Carlos Alvarez
Maria Aparicio
Esther and Larry Apple
Jason Ashur
Yvette H. Ayala, Esq.
Ruby M. Bacardi
Phyllis and Abe Bochman
Carol J. Boersma
Angeline Boey
Karina Buenrostro
Piotr Bzdyra
Vanessa Cambrelen
Natalie Canelas and Christopher Devine
Beth and Roger Carlton
Antoinette M. Carminucci
Catherine Carter
Robert Cawood
Carole J. Cholasta
Derek Cipiti
Linda Cochrane
David Coto
Jon M. Crosbie, D.O.
Sean Delgado
Joseph DeMasi and Michael Labinski
Felix Dimaro
Raeann Dlhy
Amanda and Chad Douglas
Kathleen and William Downey
Kelly and Kenneth Duvall
Avis and Lawrence Feldman
Melissa Friedel
Eduardo Garcia
Sophie Garcia Ramos
Katherine and Mark Hagenbrok
Denise Hansen
Del Henry
Raul Hernandez
The Hertz Family
Devon Hoffman
Hafiza Hosein
Diego Jimenez
Kelsey Kerr
Therese G. Klotz
Virginia Kopelman
Jennifer and Dylan Kyle
Michael Labinski and Joseph DeMasi
Natalie and Marc Lawrence
Franci Leon
Don Lessem
Matthew A. Levenson
Lynn Liddell
Edgar J. Martinez
John May
Timothy Meenan
Jennifer Mori
Terrence J. Mraz
Pamela J. Mullins and Walter D. Flores
Miriam D. Munoz
Rehan Naqui and Aisha Subhani
Melissa and Robert Netkin
Ethan Nicholson
Samantha and Brett Pencar
Krystine Pereda
William E. Peters
Jennifer Quezada
Laura and Daniel Rivera
Lisa Rothlein
Maria L. Ruiz
Jennifer A. Sabia
David Saltzman
Charles Sands
Ruth Schildbach
Samantha Mack and Scott Schoenleber
Chana and Sam Sheldon
Michael A. Simkowitz, Ph.D.
Sandra and Charles Simon
Lawrence Slone
William Sorkin
Ronald K. Stayton
Jason M. Stein
Robert Thewes
Jean Tirri
Domingo Valentin and Maria Robaina
Benge Wheeler
Jared Zechnowitz
This annual report listing recognizes those who contributed $250 or more between October 1, 2021 - September 30, 2022. Every effort has been made to ensure that the list is complete and accurate. If errors or omissions have occurred, please accept our apologies and call the Development Office at 305.255.5551 to report corrections. Thank you.
$50,000 - $99,999
Carnival Corporation
$25,000 - $49,999
Assurant, Inc.
Bank of America Merrill Lynch
Florida Power & Light
Main Street Children’s Dentistry & Orthodontics, LLC
$10,000 - $24,999
Baptist Health South Florida
Esserman International Eventbrite, Inc.
HITN
SponsorSource Event Networks
Sportsman’s Adventures, Inc.
$5,000 - $9,999
Bacardí U.S.A., Inc.
Casino Miami Jai-Alai
Conviva Care Center
El Car Wash
Little Swimmers, Inc.
The Benevity Community
Impact Fund
TruckMax, Inc.
Williamson Automotive Group
YouFit Gyms
$1,000 - $4,999
Allied Global Marketing
Be Beautiful Aesthetic Medicine
Comcast Corporation
Crab du Jour
Elite Home Energy Solutions
FL Clean Up
Hancock Askew & Co., LLP
LEGO
Media Counselors, LLC
Nova Southeastern University
Parrot Fish Studio
Planet Air Sports - Doral, LLC
Playground of Miami
Roar Media
Soccer 5 Academy
The Berry Farm
Twin Cities Public Television, Inc.
Walmart, Inc.
$500 - $999
Bake it on Wheels
Bats Northwest
Body Armor Sports Drink
Creating Bridges Therapy
CRS Data
Cutler Bay Solar Solutions
Epilepsy Alliance Florida
Great Expressions
Dental Centers
Heartland Co-op
Homelight
Huntington Learning Center
JCP Event Solutions
Kenney Communications Inc.
Miami Strike Force
Ocaquatics Management, Inc.
Shutts & Bowen, LLP
Sky Zone Cutler Bay
TravelHost Miami and the Beaches
United Way of Greater Atlanta
$250 - $499
Bilmor with Advertising Specialites, Inc.
Medtronic
United Way Worldwide
Veza Sur Brewing Co.
$100,000+
Anthony R. Abraham Foundation
NextEra Energy Foundation, Inc.
$50,000 - $99,999
The Cobb Family Foundation, Inc.
The Wildflower Foundation, Inc.
Todd and Lisa Stuart Foundation
$25,000 - $49,999
Do Unto Others Trust, Inc.
Peacock Foundation, Inc.
The Batchelor Foundation, Inc.
The Miami Foundation
$10,000 - $24,999
Cecil & Ana Milton Family Foundation
Florida Panthers Foundation
Hollenstein Ross
Family Foundation
PNC Foundation
The Clinton Family Fund
The José Milton Foundation
The Savannah Community Foundation, Inc.
The Shepard Broad Foundation, Inc.
The Tonkinson Foundation
The Windhover Foundation, Inc.
$5,000 - $9,999
D. Richard Mead Charitable Foundation
Jax Family Foundation
The Alliance for Florida’s National Parks
The Five Millers Family Foundation, Inc.
The Goldsmith Family Foundation
The William W. Spruance Foundation
$1,000 - $4,999
AmazonSmile Foundation
Fanny & Stephen Rosenak Foundation
Sofia’s Hope, Inc.
The Allen Family Foundation
The Everglades Foundation, Inc.
Westminster Barrington Foundation
$500 - $999
American Express Foundation Johnson & Johnson Foundation
The Chicago Community Foundation
$250,000+
Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs
$50,000 - $249,999
Florida Division of Cultural Affairs
National Science Foundation
$5,000+
Miami-Dade County Public Schools
$1,000 - $4,999
Ron Foertmeyer
Samantha and Brett Pencar
$250 - $999
The Berry Farm
Crab du Jour
Lincoln’s Beard Brewing Co.
Liquid Death Mountain Water
Martha H. Rabbitt
PDQ Chicken - Coral Reef
Walmart, Inc.
A legacy gift tells the story of what you hold as most important and valuable in your life and community. At Zoo Miami, members of the Josephine Wolf Legacy Society (those who have included Zoo Miami Foundation in their estate plans) provide future support for the Zoo, making certain that our mission to protect wildlife globally and in our own backyard is achieved. These commitments help us see that mission through by directly supporting conservation efforts, education programs, or capital projects. Past legacy gifts have provided over $12 million and empowered us to:
design, and renovate every area of Zoo Miami that 1 million guests
educational programming and impact conservation efforts
enjoy annually. locally and beyond.
WE ARE PROUD TO HONOR THIS GROWING SOCIETY OF COMMITTED DONORS. This legacy circle reflects champions of wildlife and is recognized throughout the year. If you would like to learn more, please use the QR code or contact us at (305) 255-5551.
Anonymous (9)
Mary G. Beazel
Bette K. Bergstrom
Betty Bosse
Harvey Sumner Bostock
Mary Sue Bowman
Eleanor Bristol
Paula E. S. Buehl
Kathleen M. Burger
Leonard B. Davis
H. Frank and Eileen W. Davis
D. Diane Dickhut
Helen C. Dubovoy
Jerome M. Epstein
Richard A. Esposito
Dr. Tina & Robert Furniss-Roe
Richard P. Gaynor
Bella Goldstein
Dr. Moses & Beatrice Goodman
Gerard F. Gorman
Eugene Greenspan
David K. Haisch & Mark R. Pradzinski
Jane E. Heuson
Nedra Hodge
Harold J. Hudson
Ida Hutzler Charitable Trust
Thea S. Katzenstein
Billie Jean Kelly
Dolores W. Knaus
Elisabeth Krone
Mr. and Mrs. Karl F. Keubler
Mary Grace Kujawski
Michael Labinski & Joseph DeMasi
Paul and Jeanne Lummis
Edward K.and Gladys Manship
Elizabeth Marlane
Betty J. Miller & Lee R. Bynum
Sanford B. Miot
Claire W. Mooers
Barbara A. Munford
Bernice B. Oaks
Lucy A. Paul
Susan J. Paul
Laura M. Petrillo
Rita E. Pollack
Gail S. Posner
Elaine Randolph
Lillian M. Rhodes
Jose C. Romano
Duke A. & Terry S. Rosenberg
Winifred Sami
Tamra H. Sheffma
Evelyn Shelley
Suzanne Stokoe
Lorraine C. Taylor
Lori V. Thomas
Margaret E. Thome
Richard R. Vaughn
Arlene L. Vollmer
L. Austin Weeks
Melissa & David Wetzel
Ellen Kail Winger
Josephine Wolf
Heather R. Woodard
Barbara Zaretsky
Zoo Miami Foundation offers several valuable resources to help you, our esteemed community, as you plan your personal legacy. On our website, you may download a free personal estate planning guide to help organize your information. Additionally, you may choose to create a free legal will through LifeLegacy. It’s easier than ever to protect those closest to you, and if interested, create a legacy here at Zoo Miami.
“Ever since I was a kid, I have loved animals and visiting zoos. They brought me so much enjoyment. I have been a member for many years and wanted to give back to something that gave me so much joy. After seeing the great care Zoo Miami provides to their animals, I knew this was a worthwhile cause. It’s a good feeling knowing my contribution will support veterinary care, spacious habitats, and educational opportunities for children.“
– Barbara Zaretsky, Josephine Wolf Legacy Society MemberBY
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Zoo News hits inboxes every other Monday and Keepin’ it Wild is sent quarterly.
196,212 NEWSLETTER RECIPIENTS SCAN ME
$45,127 DOLLARS RAISED
On November 18, 2021, 200 donors participated in this special giving event that inspires all who enjoy visiting Zoo Miami, share our love of animals, passionately drive conservation, and understand the importance of educating children and our community. Thank you to everyone who showed their Zoo Miami pride!
1,829 IN FY22 CAMPERS
7,432 ANIMAL FUN FACTORY
22,948
GUESTS
HOURS
DONATED BY CONSERVATION TEEN SCIENTISTS
117,764 FOLLOWERS
14,472 FOLLOWERS
5,492 SUBSCRIBERS
WEBSITE
4.5M
131,377 FOLLOWERS VIEWS
17,383
HOURS
DONATED BY ADULT VOLUNTEERS
for inspiring and educating future generations of conservationists.
RED THE OSTRICH