Habitat 71 - Fall 2023

19 Diversity is the cornerstone of a successful institution. It brings perspectives and ideas that sow the seeds of growth and change for the benefit of the community the organization serves. During my all too brief time here at the Detroit Zoo, as a humble summer intern, I had the privilege of helping sow these seeds of perspective for guests and staff alike. By providing on-the-ground and administrative support to Vice President of Diversity and Community Engagement Dr. De’Andrea Matthews, I helped pave the way for current and future Zoo endeavors. From discovering how diverse our team and guests are to reviewing Americans with Disabilities Act standards across Zoo grounds, I found myself at the heart of an institution that serves not just a wide variety of animals, but a wide variety of people. As my time at the Zoo winds down, I feel I can rest easy for the future of this community. The hearts and minds of the Detroit Zoological Society have a special spot for the growth of community through the continuous pursuit of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility — and the DZS will continue to serve our diverse community in all it does. Behind the Scenes of DIVERSITY AND COMMUNITY BY EVAN MCCARTHY, COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT SUMMER INTERN

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