Jo-Elle Mogerman is in her first official week as President and CEO of the Philadelphia Zoo, and has big goals of redefining urban zoos across the country in her new role, writes Earl Hopkins for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

As the first Black woman to lead the nation’s first zoo, Mogerman sees Philadelphia as the perfect city to reimagine the look and feel of urban zoos.

A newcomer to Philadelphia, Mogerman feels the city’s energy and flavor make it well-positioned for that level of innovation. 

For it to truly happen; however, it will take the entire community.

“I want the Philadelphia community to be a part of that vision. I want to hear the highlights, the bright spots, what’s working well, and how the Philadelphia Zoo can elevate existing assets and create a platform where conservation and animals can contribute to social good,” said Mogerman. 

As she continues to navigate her new role, Mogerman will make it a point to engage with the community to learn directly from them on how to establish the vision of both the Philadelphia Zoo and the urban zoo of the future.

Learn more about Jo-Elle Mogerman hopes to bring vast innovation to the zoo scene in Philadelphia and beyond at The Philadelphia Inquirer.

_____