Page 5 - Bookfield Zoo Chicago Annual Report 2024

Dear Friends

OF BROOKFIELD ZOO CHICAGO,

The past year was an exhilarating one for Brookfield Zoo Chicago! It was filled with
change as we prepared and planned for the future. We completed an inclusive planning
process to produce our Next Century Plan, a groundbreaking and ambitious master plan
that will guide our journey toward the Zoo’s Centennial Celebration in 2034 and beyond.
We look forward to sharing this bold plan with the public early this summer.
A significant milestone in our journey toward the future occurred this March with
the evolution of our brand and merging of Brookfield Zoo and the Chicago Zoological
Society into a unified identity—Brookfield Zoo Chicago. This single name and our new
mantra “Connect. Care. Conserve.” reflect the convergence of our mission and the
Zoo experience. It underscores the Zoo’s position as a leader in animal care, education,
wildlife conservation, and science with an international reputation for innovation,
inspiration, and accomplishment.
The transition to Brookfield Zoo Chicago signifies a period of growth and transformation
for the organization that aligns with our strategic goals and vision. We have invested heavily
in our future with the design and construction of Tropical Forests, a $66 million expansion
of our current Tropic World habitat and our most ambitious and innovative project in
decades. New generations of visitors will witness our charismatic primates up close
and watch them experience their new outdoor habitats. The project also includes the
Gorilla Conservation Center with state-of-the-art learning spaces for the public and a
dedicated home for our King Conservation Leadership Academy youth programs.
Tropical Forests is on schedule for completion in 2025. CHERRYL T. THOMAS
Chair, Board of Trustees
After a $10 million investment to renovate our Seven Seas facility, we have been
Brookfield Zoo Chicago & Chicago Zoological Society
delighted to welcome guests back into our dolphin habitat. The upgrades added to
our already robust enrichment program for our bottlenose dolphins and enhanced
the experience for our guests.
Although these ongoing investments in Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s facilities are significant
accomplishments, so were our numerous contributions to veterinary science, animal care
and welfare, science education, community programs, and wildlife conservation programs
DR. MICHAEL J. ADKESSON
here and abroad. Some of these are highlighted on the following pages.
President & CEO,
The future of Brookfield Zoo Chicago shines bright because of the support and input Brookfield Zoo Chicago & Chicago Zoological Society
of so many—our loyal members, guests, generous donors, sponsors, dedicated staff
and volunteers, and partner organizations and communities.
Please accept our heartfelt gratitude.

ANNUAL REPORT 2023 1