Akron Zoo Wild Animal Keeper Kristen Scaglione has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK)!

AAZK is a nonprofit organization that exists to provide resources for training, professional development and conservation to animal care professionals from across the country. Kristen is one of only six animal care professionals to be appointed to the national board, which provides leadership to more than 100 local chapters.

"I joined AAZK just for professional development - what I got was so much more,” said Kristen. “I have learned invaluable things about our field, been a part of amazing projects and befriended some of the most passionate people I've ever met. AAZK is an outstanding organization and I am a better keeper because of it. With my new role, I hope to help others have the same experience." 

Kristen has been a full-time keeper at the Akron Zoo since 2014. She currently works most closely with our grizzly bears, Jackson and Cheyenne. Throughout her career, Kristen has always been active within AAZK and has held many titles in the local Akron Chapter, including Chapter President and Program Manager for National Zoo Keeper Week.

“We are very excited for Kristen’s appointment to the AAZK Board of Directors,” said Shane Good, Akron Zoo’s director of collections management. “This is a tremendous honor for her. Kristen will have the opportunity to play a vital role in the conservation of wildlife species.  Additionally, we are excited that she will be having an impact on the professional development of zoo keepers throughout North America, advancing professional animal care for the benefit of wildlife and the animal care professionals who care for them.  Congratulations Kristen!”

 Your Akron Zoo is proud to have staff members with such great ambitions and a passion for wildlife. So be sure to congratulate Kristen if you see her, and thank her for helping wildlife and the world.

By Erica Rymer, Events and Marketing Specialist. Published April 24, 2019.