The Zoological Society of Pittsburgh’s Board of Directors today announced the appointment of veteran Zoo director Dr. Jeremy Goodman, DVM as the next President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, effective October 1, 2021. Dr. Goodman will be the eighth Zoo director since the Pittsburgh Zoo opened in 1898. He will succeed longtime zoo director Dr. Barbara Baker who announced on June 24 her plan to retire from the Pittsburgh Zoo.

Dr. Goodman, a veterinarian, is currently executive director of the Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, RI where he is credited with reinvigorating the nation’s third oldest zoo since he arrived there in 2013. He is responsible for strengthening the zoo’s financial position by seeking new sources of revenue through public funding, grants and campaigns, including for installing the largest single new exhibit ever built at the zoo.

Previously, Dr. Goodman was director of the Turtle Back Zoo in Essex County, NJ for nine years during which time he turned around the finances of the municipal zoo and achieved its first national accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). His first zoo management role was as assistant director of the Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend, Indiana. He was a private practice veterinarian after receiving his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Tufts University. He also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from Rutgers University. Dr. Goodman is a member of the AZA’s Annual Program Management Committee and is an experienced AZA Accreditation Inspector.

“Our Board is delighted that Dr. Jeremy Goodman will become the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium’s next leader,” said Donna Hudson, the Zoological Society of Pittsburgh’s Board Chair. “Dr. Goodman is an accomplished gamechanger in the advancement of city zoos and has a track record of success to bring to Pittsburgh’s unique combination zoo and aquarium. He will bring new perspective and experience to advancing our AZA accreditation, renewing our lease with the City, creating and updating exhibitions, and engaging the community in new ways in order to further enhance and grow our zoo,” added Ms. Hudson.

Commenting on his new position as President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, Dr. Goodman said: “I’m excited about the opportunity to become the new chief executive of the well-regarded Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.

”My family and I have visited Pittsburgh and the Zoo, and we are happy that we will be calling Pittsburgh our new home. I’m looking forward to working with the Zoological Society of Pittsburgh’s Board, the City of Pittsburgh, the leadership team and all employees to plan for what’s next at the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium,” said Dr. Goodman.

After leading the organization for the past 31 years, Dr. Barbara Baker will be retiring and will hold the honorary title of President Emeritus in recognition of her many contributions to the Zoo’s growth and development. She will be available, as needed, to consult with Board Officers and Dr. Goodman through the end of 2022 to ensure a smooth transition.

Zoo & Aquarium Open Every Day; Asian Lantern Festival Open Evenings, Thursday Through Sunday

Like many other non-profit organizations and community assets, the Pittsburgh Zoo faced a significant challenge due to the pandemic. The Zoo has successfully reopened and is delivering conservation and education programs, in addition to maintaining the highest standards of animal and habitat care and safety throughout its facilities.

In addition to offering the traditional experience at the zoo and aquarium, a bold new adventure is now open Thursday through Sunday evenings at the Zoo – The Asian Lantern Festival at Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, an experience that will shine a light on conservation, community and diversity. Towering steel and silk sculptures will encompass the three connected themes: the zoo, our global species conservation partnerships, and Asian culture.  As dusk settles in, the lanterns will begin to glow. Revelers will stroll the winding pathways of the Zoo, pausing to admire the beautiful lights, experience awe-inspiring entertainment, and discover the cultural diversity of our region.

The Asian Lantern Festival is a family-friendly nighttime event that requires a separate ticket from Zoo daytime admission. This special evening event is Thursday through Sunday night from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. (gates close at 9:30 p.m.) through Saturday, Oct. 30. Regular Zoo hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.

About The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium

The Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium is one of only six major Zoo and Aquarium combinations in the United States and operates the only center in North America that focuses on the breeding and care of African elephants. It is home to numerous endangered species and superior husbandry abilities to sustain them. The organization’s research and conservation projects are recognized globally and represented on all seven continents and five oceans.

Home to more than 8,000 animals representing over 600 species, the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium strives to foster positive, lifelong connections between animals and people. The Zoo is a regional attraction with a global impact, acting as a leader and a significant contributor to the conservation of endangered and threatened species. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, the Zoo has earned the Charity Navigator’s prestigious 4-star rating. Plan your next visit to the Zoo here.