Rosamond Gifford Zoo Board to Vote on Director
The 19-member board meets on October 27, 2026, to elect a new permanent executive director for the Syracuse institution.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Wildlife
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The Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo board will convene on Oct. 27, 2026, to select a permanent leader for the Syracuse facility. The organization has operated under interim leadership since early 2026.
Why it matters
Selecting a permanent executive director is essential for the zoo as it manages a recent transition in leadership and seeks to fill the position left vacant earlier this year.
A majority of the 19 board members is required to elect the new director. The zoo currently operates with a budget of $1.1 million, an increase from its previous $700,000 budget.
The players
Andrew Brazill
He has served as the interim director of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo since January 2026.
Mark D. Irwin
He is a biology professor at SUNY Jefferson Community College who served as interim director at Zoo New York.
Heidi L. Strong
She has held the position of Director of Development at the organization since 2020.
The details
The board election follows a period of interim management, with Andrew Brazill having served in the role since Jan. 28, 2026. Candidates for the position include individuals with relevant experience in biology and previous zoo administration.
Timeline
Jan. 28, 2026: Andrew Brazill began serving as interim director.
August 2026: Mark D. Irwin stepped down as interim director of Zoo New York.
Oct. 27, 2026: The Board of Directors will vote on the new executive director.
Culture Shift
The transition reflects a broader shift toward formalizing management structures in non-profit conservation organizations. This ensures stability in leadership following the Association of Zoos and Aquariums accreditation standards regarding executive governance.
The appointment of a new director will directly influence the zoo's operational strategy and future development plans for the local community. Residents and members may see changes in programming or long-term goals as the new leadership team settles into their role.
The takeaway
Selecting a permanent leader is a critical step for maintaining the zoo's operational standards and public outreach. Community members interested in the organization's direction should monitor official announcements following the board's upcoming vote.
Further reading
Learn more about local conservation efforts in our Wildlife section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WSTM.
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