About the Zoo
Operated by the nonprofit Detroit Zoological Society, the Detroit Zoo is one of Michigan’s largest paid family attractions, hosting 1.3 million guests annually. More than 2,000 animals of more than 200 species call the Zoo’s 125 acres home.
Our Mission
To create meaningful connections between people, animals and the natural world so all can thrive.
Our Purpose
To ignite positive change for animals and nature.
Our Vision
To be a force for positive change in a world where animals and nature are valued, understood and protected by all.
Key Commitments
Animals
Our commitment to the well-being of animals is grounded in evidence-based care and research. We use science to ensure that animals thrive wherever they live.
People
We are committed to cultivating an equitable and inclusive culture by providing engaging experiences that educate and inspire meaningful connections among our community, guests and team members.
Environment
We create an understanding of the complex relationships between the natural systems of the living world to support environmental resilience, biodiversity and universal healing.
Resources
Our foundation is built upon demonstrating stewardship of the resources entrusted to us through responsible management and transparent oversight.
Core Values
Caring
We are kind and compassionate advocates for animals, the environment, our communities, our guests and each other.
Integrity
We are trusted stewards who lead with transparency and accountability.
Equity
We provide safe, welcoming, accessible and inclusive spaces for all.
Curiosity
We create experiences that open minds to a journey of wonder and lifelong learning.
Innovation
We inspire creativity and collaboration to promote bold ideas and solutions.
Meet our leaders
The Detroit Zoological Society is run by a team of caring and competent leaders who are creating a brighter future for people, animals and nature.
DZS Executive Leadership Team
Hayley W. Murphy
DVM, Executive Director and
Chief Executive Officer
Jane Alessandrini
VP of Development
Michael Bowers
Chief Operating Officer
Ann Duncan
DVM, Associate VP of Life Sciences
Randi Hamilton
Chief Experience Officer
Amanda Hanlin
Ph.D., Chief of Staff
Dr. De’Andrea Matthews
NDCCDP, VP of Diversity and Community Engagement
Claire Lannoye-Hall
Ph.D., VP of Education
Mike Murray
VP of Life Sciences
Karen Philbrick
Chief People and Culture Executive
Robert Schumaker
VP of Finance and Chief Financial Officer
Belle Isle Nature Center Leadership Team
Amy Greene
Nature Center Director
Ryan Vance
Nature Center Supervisor
Board of Directors Executive Committee
Anthony F. Earley Jr.
Board of Directors Executive
Committee, Chair
Stephen R. Polk
Board of Directors Executive Committee, Vice Chair
Robert G. Riney, Vice Chair
Board of Directors Executive Committee, Vice Chair
John G. Sznewajs
Board of Directors Executive Committee, Treasurer
Tonya L. Berry
Board of Directors Executive Committee
Denise Brooks-Williams
Board of Directors Executive Committee
Dr. William A. Conway, M.D.
Board of Directors Executive Committee
Cynthia Ford
Board of Directors Executive Committee
Dr. Terry S. Harvill
Board of Directors Executive Committee
Alan Kalter
Board of Directors Executive Committee
Alan J. Kaufman
Board of Directors Executive Committee
Bonnie Larson
Board of Directors Executive Committee
Thomas J. Lewand
Board of Directors Executive Committee
Shawn Patterson
Board of Directors Executive Committee
Directors
N. Charles Anderson
Director
Alisha R. Bell
Director
Andrew Blake
Director
Sharima Bulchak
Director
Beth Chappell
Director
Dr. Betty Chu
Director
Dr. Beth Daly
Director
Charles Ellis (Bishop)
Director
John Erb
Director
Jennifer M. Grieco
Director
Brandon Kolo
Director
Mario Morrow
Director
Dr. Isaiah McKinnon
Director
Stuart Robbins
Director
Gino Roncelli
Director
James Rosenthal
Director
Rick Ruffner
Director
Dr. James Sawyer
Director
Shirley R. Stancato
Director
James Tate
Director
Joel D. Tauber
Director
Manny Torgow
Director
Marianne Vidershain
Director
Lawrence A. Wolfe
Director
Stacy Ziarko
Director
Advisory Council
Lloyd A. Semple
Advisory Council,
Chairperson
Lynn Ford Alandt
Advisory Council
Thomas C. Buhl
Advisory Council
Mary Kay Crain
Advisory Council
Matthew Cullen
Advisory Council
Edsel B. Ford II
Advisory Council
Allan Gilmour
Advisory Council
Denise Lewis
Advisory Council
Richard Manoogian
Advisory Council
Edward Mardigian
Advisory Council
Richard Platt
Advisory Council
Gail L. Warden
Advisory Council
Marilyn J. Way
Advisory Council
Jeffrey K. Willemain
Advisory Council
Our History
The Detroit Zoological Society has been igniting positive change for more than a century.
Learn MorePlan your visit to the Detroit Zoo
Donate
Generous donors like you help care for the animals who call the Zoo home, educate our community, and protect the natural world through conservation and sustainability programs.
Plan your visit to the Detroit Zoo
Visit
There is so much to see and do at the Zoo! From animal engagements to special events and more, you are sure to make a meaningful connection that will last a lifetime.
Plan Your Visit