A Legacy of Conservation,
Education & Wildlife Care
Operating as Kentucky's state zoo, Louisville Zoo has connected communities with wildlife for more than 55 years through conservation, education and animal care.
Mission & Vision
Mission
“Better the Bond Between People and Our Planet.”
We advance this mission by providing excellent animal care, exceptional visitor experiences, and conservation education leadership — as Kentucky's state zoo and an AZA-accredited institution.
Our Commitment
“Advancing diversity, racial equity, access and inclusion.”
Louisville Zoo is committed to ensuring every visitor feels welcomed, valued, and inspired — regardless of background. We believe conservation begins with inclusive community connection.
AZA Accredited — Since 1974
Louisville Zoo has maintained continuous accreditation by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums — the gold standard in animal care, conservation, and education excellence.
Our History
Louisville Zoological Gardens opens on October 1, 1969 — Kentucky's state zoo.
The Africa section welcomes giraffes, zebras, and southern white rhinoceros.
Africa exhibit expanded with new animal encounters and guest amenities.
Award-winning Glacier Run opens with polar bears and the iconic underwater viewing gallery.
The 4-acre Gorilla Forest opens, winning the 2003 AZA Award for Excellence & Innovation.
Islands exhibit opens connecting visitors to rare island wildlife from across the Pacific.
Africa updated with new animal encounters, Boma petting zoo, and enhanced visitor comfort.
Ongoing habitat enhancements, expanded conservation partnerships, and digital guest experiences.
Zoo Leadership
Dan Maloney
Director
Steve Taylor
Asst. Director — Conservation, Education & Collections
Stephanie Moore
Asst. Director — Operations, Finance & Personnel
Kelly Grether
Development Director
Ron Evans
General Curator
Zoli Gyimesi, DVM
Senior Veterinarian
Kim Allgeier
Education Curator
Robert D. Kemnitz
Marketing Director
Full staff directory available at louisvillezoo.org/about-the-zoo/staff/
Zoo Foundation Board
David Tummonds
Chair
Vice President, Power Generation
Christopher Jones
Vice Chair
Attorney, Dentons Bingham Greenebaum
Butch S. Shaw
Treasurer
CPA, Monroe Shine & Company
Jamie Brodsky
General Counsel, Frost Brown Todd
Cleo Battle
President & CEO, Louisville Tourism
Dr. Larry Florman
Physician, Asst. Professor, UofL
Kyle Burns
Director T&D Engineering, LG&E-KU
Linda Speed
President & CEO, Community Foundation of Southern Indiana
Jeffrey Nally
Senior Vice President, PNC Bank
Carey Kuhl
VP Airline Security, UPS
Pattie Dale Tye
Retired Enterprise VP, Humana
Erica Tolar
Veterinary Ophthalmologist, Bluegrass Veterinary Vision
Full board listing at louisvillezoo.org/about-the-zoo/zoo-foundation-board/
Volunteer Opportunities
View applicationGeneral Adult Volunteer
Contribute across animal care (non-hands-on), education, horticulture, and special events. Our volunteer program has served the zoo for over 45 years.
Requirements
- Age 13+
- Current TB skin test required
- Interest in animals and people
Zoo Youth Board
A 50-member program for students ages 13–18 focused on fundraising, youth engagement, and developing the next generation of conservation leaders.
Requirements
- Ages 13–18 or until graduation
- General volunteer requirements
Docent Volunteer Program
Advanced educational program training volunteers to interpret exhibits, engage visitors with biofacts, and assist with education department programming.
Requirements
- Completion of training program
- General volunteer requirements
- Commitment to visitor education
Careers at the Zoo
HR informationFree Zoo Access
While employed
Unique Environment
Work alongside wildlife
Career Growth
Multiple departments
Conservation Impact
Real global difference
Seasonal Positions — Example Roles
Zoo Service Assistant
Animal Care · 1yr college (Biology) + 1yr animal care
Education Instructor
Education · Education degree + teaching experience
Zoo Service Worker
Guest Services · Customer service skills, schedule flexibility
Ropes Course Attendant
Guest Services · Safety certification required
Splash Park Attendant
Guest Services · CPR/First Aid certified
Zoo Aide
Horticulture · Age 18+, valid driver's license
FAQ
Contact Us
Address
1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville, KY 40213
Main Number
(502) 459-2181General Inquiries
info@louisvillezoo.orgVolunteer Contact
mary.taylor@louisvilleky.govZoo Administration
(502) 459-2181 ext. AdministrationPress & Media
For media inquiries, press releases, or photography requests, contact our communications team.
Visit Louisville Zoo
Open 364 days a year. Members and general admission tickets available online or at the gate.