Summary of Houston Zoo Names Lisa Peterson New President and CEO:
The Houston Zoo has announced Lisa Peterson as its next president and CEO, effective June 2, 2025. With over 27 years of executive experience in hospitality, including leadership roles at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and Apple, Peterson will succeed Lee Ehmke, who is retiring after a notable tenure. Peterson is recognized for her innovative conservation efforts and leadership within the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Her vision for the Houston Zoo focuses on community engagement and expanding conservation initiatives globally. The zoo, which attracts over two million visitors annually, aims to enhance its impact under her leadership.
- Lisa Peterson, with her extensive executive experience in hospitality and zoo management, has been appointed as the new president and CEO of the Houston Zoo, set to begin her tenure on June 2, 2025.
- Peterson has a significant track record in wildlife conservation, highlighted by her role at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, where she facilitated significant projects such as Walkabout Australia and Elephant Valley.
- The Houston Zoo, under her leadership, aims to extend its conservation initiatives, focusing on species restoration and global wildlife protection.
- Joe Cleary, Houston Zoo board chair, acknowledges Peterson’s experience and leadership in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums as critical factors in her appointment.
- Peterson steps into leadership following Lee Ehmke, whose impactful tenure included major growth and conservation projects like the Galápagos Islands exhibit and a substantial capital campaign.
Lisa Peterson’s appointment as the incoming president and CEO of the Houston Zoo marks a significant step forward for the institution. Her past achievements reflect a dedication to wildlife preservation that aligns seamlessly with the zoo’s mission to foster conservation and community engagement. Peterson, an accomplished leader with over 27 years of experience, notably transformed the San Diego Zoo Safari Park as its senior vice president and executive director. Her tenure there was marked by ambitious conservation efforts, most notably the development of the Walkabout Australia habitat and Elephant Valley. These projects not only enriched the visitor experience but also advanced elephant conservation significantly.
Her role in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums highlights her inclusive leadership approach, enriching the zoo community with her expertise in animal population management and finance. Her commitment to mentoring future conservationists reinforces her dedication to nurturing a new generation of environmental stewards. As a leader who thrives on innovation and collaboration, Peterson has also demonstrated a unique knack for translating her experiences in the hospitality sector to the zoo environment, enhancing visitor engagement and satisfaction.
Joe Cleary, the Houston Zoo board chair, praised Peterson’s robust blend of executive skills and conservation passion. He notes that her leadership qualities and achievements within the Association of Zoos and Aquariums made her an ideal choice. Cleary looks forward to the momentum Peterson will bring to the zoo’s mission and projects, which aim to connect the public with wildlife and inspire proactive conservation actions.
Peterson succeeds Lee Ehmke, whose dynamic leadership over nine years left a lasting legacy at the Houston Zoo. Ehmke accomplished a $156 million centennial capital campaign and opened the Galápagos Islands exhibit in 2023, underscoring a tenure that focused on both expansion and environmental advocacy. Under his stewardship, the zoo cemented its role as a leading conservation entity, making strategic alignments with global wildlife protection efforts.
The Houston Zoo is more than just an attraction; it’s a hub for significant conservation work, such as restoring Houston toad populations and safeguarding gorillas in Rwanda. These programs not only demonstrate ecological responsibility but also engage local communities in meaningful ways to foster awareness and action. Under Peterson’s guidance, the Houston Zoo is poised to enhance these initiatives and broaden its conservation footprint both in Texas and internationally.
The emphasis on sustainable practices and community involvement is crucial, reflecting a public that is increasingly concerned with ecological implications. The zoo’s commitment to these values aligns well with Peterson’s past achievements and vision. Her experience suggests a continued focus on creating engaging and educational environments that drive public support for wildlife preservation.
In sum, the Houston Zoo’s decision to appoint Lisa Peterson reflects a strategic choice to blend executive experience with innovative conservation projects. Her leadership is anticipated to converge the elements of zoological management, conservation science, and community interaction into a cohesive force for wildlife advocacy. The mission is clear: continue the path of growth and innovation established by previous leaders while expanding its reach and impact. As Peterson prepares to undertake this new challenge, the future indeed looks promising for the Houston Zoo, its inhabitants, and its wider community.
