Congratulations, Denise!
while a nationwide search was conducted by the Mayor’s office, and she assumes her new role immediately.
As the Zoo Director, she will oversee the wellbeing of more than 1,400 animals and nearly two million visitors each year. Denise will continue the Zoo’s mission of being a leader in conservation and saving animals from extinction and a champion of the highest standards in animal welfare. A top priority will be the implementation of the Zoo’s Vision Plan, a comprehensive redesign and redevelopment of the Zoo’s existing 133-acre site to replace outdated buildings and infrastructure and transform the Zoo into something that is uniquely Los Angeles.
“I thank Mayor Garcetti and the Los Angeles City Councilmembers for their vote of confidence in my serving as the next Zoo Director of the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens,” Denise said. “As the Los Angeles Zoo continues to evolve, I’m humbled to be working alongside the best and brightest staff and volunteers as we strive to make the Los Angeles Zoo an institution that thrives and is relevant and meaningful for all people from all backgrounds.”
She began her City career in 1988 at the Office of the City Administrative Officer (CAO) until she was promoted to the L.A. Zoo. Denise earned her bachelor of science degree in administrative studies at the University of California, Riverside.
She played a big role in Alive!’s cover story, marking the Zoo’s 50th anniversary, published in November 2016. Alive! looks forward to profiling more news from the Zoo.
Congratulations, Denise, from the Club!
