2021 Annual Report

2 | Detroit Zoological Society Dear Zoo supporters, I took the helm of the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) as chief executive officer and executive director in November 2021. I was initially drawn to the DZS not because it was a logical step in my career, but because the Detroit Zoo is a renowned leader in wildlife conservation, animal welfare, humane education and environmental sustainability. As a veterinarian, conservationist and zoo professional, I have had a lifelong commitment to the betterment of animals and people who share our natural world. From everything I knew about the Detroit Zoo, I believed its mission and values mirrored my own. Within my first few weeks at the DZS, I knew this organization lived up to its reputation. Outgoing CEO Ron Kagan left a legacy of excellence that lives on at the DZS. Every day, I see how the dedicated DZS staff, board of directors, volunteers, members, donors and the community work together to advance each pillar of the DZS mission. I am honored to work alongside them during a very exciting time for the organization. The year 2021 was a year of transition – not only in leadership, but it was also a transition out of the COVID-19 crisis and shutdowns of 2020. I believe the DZS has emerged from these transitions stronger than ever, and we have plenty of successes to show for it, including a pair of rescued sea otters and a tree planting initiative to make our world greener. I also am incredibly proud of the DZS’s leadership in organizational diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility. We are leading the way for a diversity of people to join us in our mission of Celebrating and Saving Wildlife and Wild Places . I can’t wait for you all to learn about everything we’ve been working on in the pages of this annual report. As we move forward into 2022 and beyond, I am thrilled to continue the great work the DZS has done for decades. Please know that these accomplishments are only possible through the support of the community. Thank you for helping us and for sharing our passion for animals, people and the planet that we all share. Sincerely, Dr. Hayley W. Murphy Executive Director/CEO