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VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT 2005

The Illinois Zoological and
Aquatic Animal Residency Program—
a partnership between the University
of Illinois, the Society, and the John
G. Shedd Aquarium—is formed.
It provides veterinarians with the
training and education to become
board-certified specialists.

We love our volunteers! Here, meet Nancy Schulze, who has today today
been volunteering at Brookfield Zoo for more than 20 years.
She began training as a docent in September 1997 and, in addi- 3 veterinary residents
tion to educating guests about zoo animals, has volunteered in 6 veterinary postgraduates
Hamill Family Play Zoo, played a large role in our “A Zoo 25 veterinary students in
for All” initiative, and helped out at many of our special events,
such as Boo! at the Zoo and Holiday Magic. clinical rotation

What inspired you to start volunteering? 500+ veterinary residents,

I had heard about Brookfield Zoo’s volunteer program from one students, and technicians who
of my coworkers (I worked as a pediatric nurse until December received professional training
2018). She would tell me stories of the families that she encoun- since the veterinary education
tered and about the friendships that came about with her fellow program’s launch in 2005
volunteers. I love interacting with children and families, and I
wanted to learn more about animals, nature, and conservation. 7,060 lab tests
I visited Brookfield Zoo and shadowed an awesome docent and 5,280 fecal samples
was in awe of her knowledge and how she interacted with guests. 188 hormone tests

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2001
The Endocrinology
Program is launched.