Recognizing everyday changemakers
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
From polar bears to beavers, zebra sharks to sea stars, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is home to over 9,000 animals, each requiring specialized care and attention. It's no small feat to ensure that every animal receives the best medical care possible, and that's where Dr. Karen Wolf, the Head Veterinarian and board-certified specialist in zoological medicine, comes in.
For over 15 years, Dr. Wolf has been at the helm of the zoo’s veterinary team, leading a dedicated group of animal health professionals, including 2 associate veterinarians, 3 veterinary technicians, a medical records/regulatory affairs coordinator, and a hospital assistant. Together, they work tirelessly to provide not only routine medical check-ups but also innovative, cutting-edge treatments for animals of all shapes and sizes.
"Providing exceptional care for animals—whether they are aquatic, terrestrial, or flighted—is not just my job; it’s my passion," says Dr. Wolf. "The team and I work every day to ensure all the animals in our care live healthy and comfortable lives in a safe, nurturing environment."
Dr. Wolf’s commitment to the well-being of the zoo's inhabitants goes beyond basic medicine. “We are caring for some of the world’s most rare and endangered animals, including American red wolves and Sumatran tigers. We need to provide the highest standards of veterinary care to ensure these animals can thrive and reproduce, doing their part to help prevent species extinction. That’s a huge responsibility.” Given that duty, along with the challenges of diagnosing and treating non-domestic animals, the veterinary team uses state-of-the-art medical equipment and treatments to enhance their practice.
The veterinarians have a variety of medical equipment on hand to reduce the need for extensive travel to outside veterinary facilities. Portable medical equipment, such as a water-resistant ultrasound machine, for example, allows the veterinarians to perform assessments even underwater in the aquarium. The team can also use a portable dental x-ray unit to examine a walrus's massive tusks or a meerkat's tiny teeth with equal precision. Cold-laser therapy is used as an adjunct treatment to improve comfort for animals with arthritis and to help with wound healing. A recompression chamber in the aquarium helps treat fish with gas bubble disease. These are just a few examples of the wide array of equipment available to help provide exceptional care.
But innovation isn't limited to technology. Dr. Wolf and her team are constantly prepared for the unexpected and have developed partnerships with other veterinary specialists with different areas of expertise to help provide optimal care for the zoo animals. Take Sven, the Arctic fox, for example. When he tore the ligaments in his left knee and damaged his meniscus, Dr. Wolf enlisted the help of board-certified veterinary surgeons. Together, the teams performed a complex surgery, inserting a surgical pin across Sven's joint to stabilize his knee.
Then there’s Bandar, the Sumatran tiger, who had been exhibiting signs of mouth pain. After a thorough examination, the team discovered two fractured canine teeth and arranged for a veterinary dental specialist to perform root canals, restoring the tiger’s comfort and quality of life.
Sometimes, nature itself needs a helping hand. For instance, a day-old penguin chick was found outside of its nest, cold and near death, and was rushed to the hospital. Dr. Wolf was able to revive the chick, and the veterinary staff nursed it to health, maintaining it in an environmentally controlled incubator in the hospital for multiple weeks. The fragile chick received medical treatments and feedings via gavage until it was stable enough that its care could transition to the keepers and ultimately back to the penguin parents. Marigold is now a healthy member of the penguin flock.
Dr. Wolf's leadership and unwavering commitment to animal welfare have made a lasting impact at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. Under her guidance, the zoo’s veterinary team has become a cornerstone of animal care, equipped with the skills, knowledge, and technology to handle any challenge that comes their way.
"Every day brings new challenges, but that is what makes my job fun, and it’s all worth it to ensure that our animals live the best lives possible."
With Dr. Wolf leading the care team, it’s clear that the animals at Point Defiance are in exceptional hands.
Washington Trails Association
Washington Trails Association (WTA) is the nation’s leading state-based hiking and trail maintenance organization, driven by the passion and dedication of hikers. As a nonprofit, WTA mobilizes hikers and everyone who loves the outdoors to explore, protect, and champion public lands and trails. Their vision is clear: trails for everyone, forever.
WTA's impact is profound. Every year, over 5 million outdoor enthusiasts turn to WTA for education, inspiration, and opportunities to protect and advocate for public lands. With the help of WTA, over 66,000 advocates speak up for public lands, and 3,600 volunteers complete 150,000 hours of trail work on 290 trails annually. In 2024 alone, WTA opened new trails, celebrated 1,000 trips supported by their Outdoor Leadership Training program, and continued to lay the foundation for a rich hiking future in Washington.
One individual who has made a significant difference at WTA is Angelic Friday. Angelic is often found deep in the backcountry, restoring at-risk trails, leading inclusive and diverse work parties in which volunteers participate in trail maintenance, supporting early-career professionals, or simply enjoying the trails for fun. Growing up with a curiosity about nature, Angelic's time on the trail became a vital mental sanctuary during the pandemic. Her passion led her to a trail-focused career, starting as a park aide for Washington State Parks and eventually joining WTA's professional Lost Trails Found crew in 2022. Within two seasons, Angelic became a trail expert, moving from a member to a crew leader for Lost Trails Found. She also applied to lead WTA’s Emerging Leaders Program, which fosters a diverse space for individuals, including those from underrepresented communities, by providing training in trail work, professional development, leadership, and networking. Additionally, she supports WTA’s two gear lending libraries that help groups get outside and fosters relationships with community partners and land managers, further strengthening all of WTA’s programs. Her dedication to trails even earned her an award from the Washington State Trails Coalition as an Emerging Leader here in Washington. Angelic's work is integral to WTA’s mission to mobilize hikers and everyone who loves the outdoors to explore, steward, and champion trails and public lands. "I continue to work for WTA because of the people. The community I’ve been able to make within WTA has been amazing," Angelic said. "It’s been really cool to have a lot of genuine and authentic people to work with."
Through the efforts of staff like Angelic and the collective dedication of its volunteers and supporters, WTA ensures that Washington’s trails remain sustainable and accessible to everyone for generations to come.
Choose 180
Imagine a world where every young person, regardless of their background, is seen as a possibility, not a problem. This is the vision that drives CHOOSE 180, an organization dedicated to transforming systems of injustice and supporting young people impacted by them. Their mission is to envision a future where systems are community-led, harmful behavior is met with accountability and healing, and youth from historically marginalized and criminalized communities can thrive.
CHOOSE 180’s impact is significant. Since its inception in 2011, the organization has served nearly 4,000 youth and young adults. Over 90% of the young people who complete CHOOSE 180's diversion program do not re-engage with the criminal legal system within a year. The organization also serves young people in 10 different middle and high schools throughout King County, including the Highline School District, through their school-based diversion program, offering support for students at risk of suspension or expulsion.
One individual who has made a remarkable difference at CHOOSE 180 is LaMaria Pope. LaMaria first engaged with CHOOSE 180 as a participant when she was facing charges and was referred to the organization’s court diversion program through a partnership with the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. She chose a different path for herself and, after completing the program, became a volunteer, sharing her story and encouraging other young people to embrace their potential. LaMaria's ability to connect with young people is truly inspiring, often landing her opportunities to speak at events and news segments on the importance of mentorship and diversion programs.
Her dedication to giving back to the community led her to a direct service role with CHOOSE 180, supporting the School-Based Diversion and Summer Entrepreneurship programs. Now, as the Program Manager, she not only mentors young people but also leads a team. She creates a safe space for youth participants and fellow team members to learn, heal, and grow. From mentoring students in schools to taking youth on field trips during the summer to designing program curriculum, LaMaria goes above and beyond for her community and young people.
LaMaria's journey with CHOOSE 180 is a testament to the organization's mission and impact. "I chose to work with CHOOSE 180 because CHOOSE 180 chose me. When my back was against the wall, I could lean on mentors and programming to keep me uplifted. CHOOSE 180 gave me a life-changing opportunity in some of the darkest times of my life." Her story exemplifies the transformative power of CHOOSE 180 and its commitment to supporting young people in navigating their challenges and finding their purpose.
Pacific Science Center
Step into a world where science comes alive, where every corner sparks curiosity, and where the wonders of discovery are just a hands-on experiment away. This is Pacific Science Center (PacSci), a cornerstone of science education and innovation in Seattle. For over 60 years, PacSci has been a beacon of informal science education, making science accessible and engaging for all.
At the core of PacSci's mission is the belief that curiosity and critical thinking are essential for personal and societal growth. Their mission is to ignite curiosity in every child and fuel a passion for discovery, experimentation, and critical thinking in all of us. This mission comes to life through a variety of programs and initiatives that reach hundreds of thousands of individuals each year.
One of the most impactful programs is Science on Wheels, PacSci's statewide mobile outreach program. This initiative brings engaging, interactive, and hands-on STEM programming directly to schools, libraries, and community centers across Washington. Last year alone, Science on Wheels served more than 100,000 students in 27 of Washington's 39 counties, with 73% of the recipients attending low-income schools and receiving free programs. This program not only reduces barriers to educational accessibility but also inspires the next generation of scientists and innovators.
A shining example of PacSci's mission in action is Jason Barnwell, a dedicated Board member who has been deeply involved with the organization for years. Growing up in the rural South, Jason's curiosity was ignited when he witnessed the launch of the Space Shuttle Challenger. This tragic event inspired him to explore how physical objects functioned, leading him to take apart everyday items at home. His hands-on approach to learning taught him an important lesson: curiosity compounds.
Jason's commitment to educational accessibility is evident in his support for Science on Wheels. He believes that providing access to STEM programming in underserved areas is crucial for unlocking opportunities for community members. His passion for PacSci's mission is rooted in his own journey and experiences, making him a true embodiment of the organization's values.
By igniting curiosity and fostering a love for science, PacSci is not just shaping a brighter future for all but also creating a legacy of innovation and discovery that will inspire generations to come.
Eastrail Partners
Picture this: a vibrant trail winding through the Puget Sound, where every step you take connects you to the heart of the community, the beauty of nature, and the pulse of the city. This is the Eastrail, a 42-mile corridor that’s more than just a path—it’s a lifeline for the region. Eastrail Partners, the driving force behind this incredible project, is on a mission to create a thriving trail that reflects the diversity of Puget Sound. They are dedicated to raising awareness, securing trail funding, and connecting people to one another and the trail, believing in an Eastrail for everyone, every day.
Eastrail Partners' impact is profound. In partnership with community leaders, they have implemented the first three cross-cultural public arts projects on the Eastrail, built coalitions and relationships that secured $59 million in state and federal funding for Eastrail projects, and partnered with Eastside-focused corporations for $9.5 million in direct trail investment. These efforts are transforming the Eastrail into a vibrant, accessible space that fosters community engagement and connectivity.
One individual who embodies the mission of Eastrail Partners is Sophia Escalona, a passionate volunteer who began working with the organization this summer. Sophia loves the Eastrail because of how it knits together communities. As a wide, flat, 42-mile trail corridor with amazing scenery, it connects people from Renton to Snohomish to transit options, nature, art, and, most importantly, to each other. Growing up on the Eastside, Sophia mostly saw car-dominated spaces, but the Eastrail showed them a future that includes biking, rolling, walking, and exploring. Along the Eastrail, Sophia has enjoyed community concerts in Kirkland, public art along the corridor that reflects the region's community and history, and direct connections to transit options like the new Eastside light rail stations.
Sophia's dedication to people-centered public spaces and multi-modal transportation is evident in their support for Eastrail Partners. They know how important the Eastrail is as transit infrastructure and how crucial funding and support for a fully connected trail are. Sophia is excited for a future where more people have better access to the beauty of nature and to reliable, safe choices for moving and commuting. They are grateful to Eastrail Partners for helping make this future a reality.
Through the efforts of individuals like Sophia and the collective dedication of its supporters, Eastrail Partners ensures that the Eastrail remains a sustainable and accessible resource for generations to come. By fostering community engagement and connectivity, Eastrail Partners is not just building a trail but creating a legacy of inclusivity and exploration.
Mountains to Sound Greenway
Nestled between the bustling city of Seattle and the serene Cascade Mountains lies a green corridor that embodies the perfect harmony between urban life and nature. This is the Mountains to Sound Greenway, a landscape that stretches from Seattle across the Cascade Mountains to Central Washington. The Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust is the guardian of this iconic place, leading and inspiring action to conserve and enhance the landscape, ensuring a long-term balance between people and nature.
The mission of the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust is to create a sustainable future where natural and built environments coexist in harmony. Since its inception, the Trust has helped to conserve more than a quarter-million acres through creative partnerships between public agencies and private nonprofit organizations. Their efforts have resulted in the planting of over 1 million trees, bolstering air and water quality, and rebuilding the canopy in developed areas. Additionally, the Trust has engaged more than 70,000 local school children in environmental education, nurturing the conservation leaders of tomorrow.
One individual who has made a significant impact within the organization is Mark Boyar, a long-time board member and a humble conservation hero. Recruited to the Greenway effort by founder Jim Ellis, Mark has dedicated much of his life to the restoration and protection of the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River Valley. This valley, located just 30 minutes from Seattle, is a unique refuge of clean water and wildness. It is the largest refuge of the cleanest water flowing to Puget Sound and the closest place in the nation where one can reach designated wilderness from a major city.
Mark's journey with the Greenway Trust began in the 1990s when he and a small group of local advocates undertook the reclamation and cleanup of the Middle Fork Valley. The valley, once plagued by illegal dumping and criminal activity, has now become one of the nation's greatest conservation comeback stories. Mark's dedication to the Middle Fork's care and his hands-on approach to conservation work have been instrumental in transforming the valley into a publicly owned asset for millions of people in the Puget Sound community.
Through the efforts of individuals like Mark Boyar and the collective dedication of its supporters, the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust ensures that this incredible landscape remains a sustainable and accessible resource for generations to come. By fostering community engagement and connectivity, the Trust is not just conserving land but creating a legacy of environmental stewardship and exploration.
IslandWood
Bainbridge Island is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming small-town atmosphere, and vibrant arts community. Nestled within this natural beauty is IslandWood, a hidden gem that offers immersive environmental education amidst the island’s tranquil forest and trails.
IslandWood's mission is to provide exceptional learning experiences that inspire lifelong environmental and community stewardship. Founded in 2002, IslandWood aims to increase access to meaningful outdoor learning and environmental education experiences for children in the Puget Sound. Their vision for the future is that 100% of upper elementary students attending under-resourced schools in Washington State experience nature-based learning.
To support this effort, Kate Bedient, the Director of Urban Programs at IslandWood, has significantly broadened the organization's reach and impact with her vision and dedication. Kate has been instrumental in expanding IslandWood's programs beyond their Bainbridge Island campus, bringing environmental education to urban areas and making nature-based learning accessible to thousands of students in the Seattle region. Her work has been critical in redefining the concept of "environment" to include urban systems, ensuring that environmental education is relevant and accessible to all communities.
The impact of IslandWood on the community is profound. On their 250-acre Bainbridge Island campus, they welcome 4th-6th graders from all over the region to their overnight program and offer a graduate program in partnership with the University of Washington. In the last ten years, IslandWood has grown exponentially, now running programs in Seattle, Woodinville, Renton, Tacoma, and online. Through these programs, IslandWood directly reaches over 10,000 students annually at creeks, rivers, streams, and wastewater treatment plants throughout Seattle and impacts another 15,000 students a year through professional learning opportunities for classroom teachers. Under-resourced schools are given priority registration access for these programs as part of IslandWood’s commitment to justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Every IslandWood program is built explicitly for hands-on immersion and a sense of belonging. "In every IslandWood program, we have a goal for each child to feel included in their learning, for their voice and lived experiences to really matter, and for school-based learning to be connected to the most pressing environmental issues of our local places and regions—to be relevant to both our time and our place," says Kate.
Through the efforts of individuals like Kate Bedient and the collective dedication of its supporters, IslandWood continues to make a lasting impact on the community. By fostering environmental stewardship and providing accessible nature-based learning, IslandWood is shaping a future where every child can connect with and care for the natural world.
KidsQuest Children’s Museum
Step into a world where play meets learning, where curiosity is sparked, and every child is encouraged to explore and discover. Welcome to KidsQuest Children's Museum, a vibrant hub of creativity and education located in Bellevue, Washington. Since its inception, KidsQuest has been dedicated to creating learning experiences through the power of play and exploration, connecting children to their communities and the world.
KidsQuest's mission is to unleash the natural curiosity and creativity of children, helping them develop essential social, emotional, and cognitive skills through play. The Museum offers a wide range of interactive exhibits, early learning classes, family workshops, summer camps, and outreach programs, all designed to engage children in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) education. With a focus on hands-on learning, KidsQuest provides a space where children can experiment, create, and learn in a fun and supportive environment.
Putter Bert, the President & CEO, joined KidsQuest in 1999 and led the plan to create the first children’s museum on King County’s Eastside, opening in Bellevue’s Factoria Mall in 2005. Under her leadership, KidsQuest nearly doubled its projected visitors in its first year and later secured a Downtown Bellevue location for an expanded facility that opened in 2017. Putter's dedication to the Museum's mission and her passion for children's museums have made KidsQuest an internationally recognized leader in early learning and STEAM education.
Since opening its doors in 2005, the Museum has welcomed over 3 million visitors and serves more than 200,000 people annually. KidsQuest is not just a museum; it is a community resource that supports over 35,000 children and their families each year with free and reduced admission, scholarships, and outreach programming. In 2024, KidsQuest partnered with the Bellevue School District to bring science and engineering enrichment programs to every kindergarten class in the district, reaching approximately 1,560 children.
KidsQuest is more than just a place to play; it is a beacon of learning, creativity, and community. With the unwavering dedication of individuals like Putter Bert, KidsQuest remains a shining example of what can be achieved when passion meets purpose. Let us all be inspired by the magic of KidsQuest and the endless possibilities it brings to our children and our community.
KEXP
Seattle is a community of music lovers and music makers, and KEXP is at the heart of Seattle’s music scene. Since its founding at the University of Washington in 1972, KEXP has grown into one of the most influential listener-supported music radio stations in the world and a global hub for music lovers. Broadcasting at 90.3 KEXP-FM and through its website and mobile apps, KEXP is more than just a radio station; it's a community where music and discovery thrive.
KEXP's mission is to enrich lives by championing music and discovery. Their vision is a connected and compassionate world embracing curiosity and a shared love of music. KEXP fosters relationships and community building through broadcast, online, and in-person music experiences. The station's commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and equity is evident in everything they do, from their programming to their community outreach efforts.
The impact of KEXP on the music community is profound. In 2024 alone, listeners and viewers watched over 12,898,265 hours of Live on KEXP sessions on YouTube, and the station hosted over 136,000 visits to the KEXP Gathering Space at Seattle Center. KEXP's Seattle-based radio broadcast reached listeners from 33,867 different cities and towns around the world. The station's unique services benefit three distinct groups: music lovers, artists, and the arts community. KEXP's dedication to supporting artists who challenge musical conventions and celebrating music that spans eras, styles, and traditions has made it a cornerstone of the global music community.
One individual who embodies KEXP's mission is Kennady Quille, the current host of Audioasis, the longest-running Pacific Northwest music show. Born and raised in the Seattle area, Kennady has been involved with local non-profits like Rain City Rock Camp since high school. They got their start DJing at KEXP by participating in the 90.TEEN youth program, where teens gain experience in radio and media arts under the guidance of KEXP DJs. Kennady's deep connection to the local music scene and their commitment to fostering new talent make them a true changemaker at KEXP.
Kennady's story is a testament to the power of community and the transformative impact of music. As the host of Audioasis, they curate what airs on the show, sourcing the best of the locally grown music scene. Their involvement with KEXP and the broader Seattle music community highlights the station's mission to connect people through music and discovery.
Through its mission to champion music and discovery, KEXP has touched the lives of countless individuals, fostering a love for music that transcends boundaries.
Imagine Children’s Museum
Imagine being four years old, stepping into a world where every corner is a new adventure. The moment you walk through the doors of Imagine Children's Museum, your senses are filled with excitement. You see towering evergreen trees in an indoor forest as children and families fish in a small pond. You hear the joyful laughter of children above, climbing over rope bridges that connect colorful treehouses and lookouts in the woodland canopy. You hear the sound of a live musical performance enticing you to a nearby stage. Your tiny hands drive a bus, milk a cow, fly a plane, and dig for dinosaur bones as you explore room upon room filled with interactive exhibits designed to help you learn about the world around you.
Welcome to Imagine Children's Museum, a cornerstone of creativity and education nestled in the heart of Everett, Washington. This vibrant museum is dedicated to enriching children's lives through playful learning, offering a sanctuary where curiosity and imagination are celebrated.
The mission of Imagine Children's Museum is to provide innovative programs and exhibits that stimulate the senses, spark imagination, and inspire curiosity. As the largest children's museum in the Pacific Northwest, Imagine serves as a safe haven for children ages 1-12 to take chances, meet others, and find what excites them. The museum's vision is to create an environment where every child can explore, learn, and grow, fostering a lifelong love of discovery and learning.
The impact of Imagine Children's Museum on the community is profound. In 2024 alone, the museum served 290,840 children and caregivers, making it one of the most popular museums in the Puget Sound region. Imagine offers outreach programs that serve communities large and small throughout the region, including facilitated informal learning experiences at schools, libraries, parks, and community centers. The museum's free and subsidized admission programs ensure that all families, regardless of their financial situation, can access these enriching experiences.
One individual who embodies the spirit of Imagine Children's Museum is David Ratliff, a dedicated Board member. David grew up playing at Imagine as a child and later became a volunteer during high school. His passion for the museum's mission led him to a career focused on providing quality housing for those in need, and he is now a partner at DevCo, the leading developer of affordable housing in Washington State. David's involvement with Imagine has come full circle, and he now advises the organization on business operations, helping to increase efficiency and lower costs. His input was invaluable during Imagine's recent $25 million capital campaign and construction project, which doubled the museum's size.
Motivated by the safe, welcoming, and clean environment that Imagine provides, David plans to give back to the museum for the rest of his life. "When you see children's eyes light up, and the imagination, it really warms your heart," he says. His dedication and vision have helped shape Imagine into the beacon of hope and learning that it is today.
Imagine Children's Museum is more than just a place to play; it is a vital community resource that empowers future leaders and fosters a love for learning.
Ada Developers Academy
Ada Developers Academy is a non-profit, cost-free coding school for women and gender-expansive adults. The academy prioritizes serving Black, Latine, Indigenous Americans, Native Hawaiian & Pacific Islander, LGBTQIA+, and low-income people. Ada's mission is to prepare women and gender-expansive adults to be software developers while advocating for inclusive and equitable work environments. The academy offers a collaborative learning environment, individualized support, and an applied learning internship, all designed to empower students to achieve economic power through careers in tech.
One of the many success stories from Ada Developers Academy is that of Kristin Lee. Kristin, a proud Chinese American in Seattle, WA, joined Ada with a dream of breaking into the tech industry. Through Ada's rigorous training program, Kristin not only learned to code but also gained the confidence and skills needed to thrive in a competitive field. After completing the program, Kristin secured a full-time position as a software engineer at Microsoft.
The partnership between Ada Developers Academy and Microsoft has been instrumental in providing opportunities for its graduates. Currently, there are 43 Ada graduates working full-time as software engineers at Microsoft. The impact of Ada Developers Academy extends beyond individual success stories. By providing a pathway to economic empowerment for women and gender-expansive adults, Ada is helping to build a more inclusive and equitable tech industry. The academy's graduates are not only skilled software developers but also advocates for change, working to create inclusive work environments and inspire the next generation of tech leaders.
Ada Developers Academy is a beacon of hope and opportunity for women and gender-expansive adults seeking to break into the tech industry. Through its mission-driven approach and impactful partnerships, Ada is transforming lives and shaping the future of tech, one graduate at a time.
Woodland Park Zoo
Woodland Park Zoo saves wildlife and inspires conservation action among millions of people each year. The zoo is home to more than 800 animals representing nearly 250 species, all cared for with the highest standards of animal welfare. The zoo's exhibits are designed to provide realistic habitats that encourage natural behaviors, offering visitors an immersive experience that fosters a deeper connection to wildlife.
The impact of Woodland Park Zoo extends far beyond its 92 tree-covered acres in Seattle. The zoo's conservation efforts span the globe, from protecting endangered species in the Pacific Northwest to supporting wildlife conservation projects in Africa, Asia, and Papua New Guinea. Locally, the zoo engages in partnerships with schools and community organizations that collectively form one of the largest access programs in Washington state. In 2024 alone, the zoo hosted nearly 1.3 million visitors, inspiring the next generations of champions for wildlife and wild places.
One individual who embodies the spirit of Woodland Park Zoo is Kerrie Littlejohn, PhD, the Senior Director of Evaluation and Impact. Kerrie leads the zoo's Monitoring, Learning, and Evaluation Initiative, which measures progress and effectiveness in delivering the zoo's mission and vision at an organizational level—a first for any zoo at this broad, holistic scale. With more than 20 years of experience in conservation psychology, Kerrie has been instrumental in developing research-driven solutions to real-world challenges, catalyzing critical shifts in how people perceive and address social and environmental issues.
Kerrie's work has been transformative for Woodland Park Zoo. Before joining the zoo, she served as lead planner for Hawaii’s Marine 30x30 Initiative, driving efforts to expand marine conservation through strategic planning and stakeholder engagement. At Woodland Park Zoo, Kerrie applies her expertise to enhance the zoo's conservation impact, ensuring that every initiative is grounded in rigorous evaluation and continuous improvement. Additionally, Kerrie is collaborating with Microsoft to leverage technology in advancing the zoo's conservation goals, integrating data analytics and AI to monitor animal health and behavior more effectively. Kerrie and team are testing a new Microsoft-powered zoo app so animal keepers can input observations to track trends and changes that can inform better care plans—from predicting seasonal changes to a brown bear's diet to adapting a habitat to suit an aging orangutan's exercise level.
In addition to providing amazing opportunities to see and connect with animals, Woodland Park Zoo is a powerful force for conservation and education. Through its mission to save wildlife and inspire conservation action, the zoo has touched the lives of countless individuals for more than 125 years and made a lasting impact on the global conservation community.
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