Dr. Kathayoon Khalil Joins Columbus Zoo as Vice President of conservation Programs
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The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has made a groundbreaking addition to its leadership team with the appointment of Dr. Kathayoon khalil as Vice President and Director of Conservation Programs for both the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds. With over two decades of experience in environmental education, conservation strategy, and programme evaluation, Khalil officially stepped into her role on January 22, 2025.
In her new position, Khalil will oversee all conservation programming and projects, focusing on advancing collaborative partnerships in innovative conservation science. Her vision is to enhance programs that connect people with nature while driving impactful conservation efforts locally and globally.
“Dr. Khalil brings a wealth of experience, passion, and a track record of impactful conservation work,” said Dr. Jan ramer, senior vice president of animal care and conservation for the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds. “We are excited to see her lead our already impactful conservation programming and project efforts, continuing to develop innovative programs and expanding our mission of ‘Empowering People. Saving Wildlife.’ locally and globally. Her guidance will undoubtedly strengthen our ability to connect people with nature and inspire actionable conservation efforts to make a difference.”
Before joining the Columbus Zoo, Khalil served as Associate Vice President at the New England Aquarium, where she managed the creation and implementation of the Aquarium’s strategic vision for Conservation Learning. Her career also includes roles as Conservation Impact Manager at the Oregon Zoo and Director of Engagement at Canopy Strategic Partners.
“I am incredibly honored to join the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds, which are recognized worldwide for their leadership in wildlife conservation,” Khalil said. “I look forward to collaborating with the team to advance innovative conservation initiatives and build on the organization’s legacy of protecting wildlife and their habitats.”
Khalil’s academic credentials are equally impressive. She holds a Ph.D. in Education, Learning Sciences, and Technology Design from Stanford University and a Master of Environmental Science from Yale University.Additionally, she has served as an adjunct professor through Miami University’s Project Dragonfly program, teaching courses in conservation science and biodiversity.
Key Highlights of Dr. Kathayoon khalil’s Career
| Role | Organization | Key Achievements |
|————————————|——————————–|————————————————————————————-|
| Vice President & Director | Columbus Zoo & The Wilds | Overseeing conservation programs and advancing innovative conservation science |
| Associate Vice President | New England Aquarium | Managed strategic vision for Conservation Learning |
| Conservation Impact Manager | Oregon Zoo | Led impactful conservation initiatives |
| Director of Engagement | Canopy Strategic Partners | Developed engagement strategies for conservation programs |
Khalil’s appointment marks a critically important step forward for the Columbus zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds,reinforcing their commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental education. Her leadership is expected to inspire new generations to take actionable steps toward protecting our planet’s biodiversity.For more data about the Columbus Zoo’s conservation efforts, visit their Conservation Programs page. To learn more about Dr. Kathayoon Khalil’s background, check out her personal website.
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Dr. Kathayoon Khalil Joins Columbus Zoo as Vice President of Conservation Programs
In a significant move for wildlife conservation, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has appointed Dr. Kathayoon Khalil as Vice President and Director of Conservation Programs, extending her leadership to The Wilds. With over two decades of experience in environmental education and conservation strategy, Dr. Khalil’s role is set to drive innovative initiatives that connect people with nature while advancing global conservation efforts. Senior Editor Emily Carter sat down with Dr. Khalil to discuss her vision, background, and plans for the future.
A Vision for Conservation
Emily carter: Dr. Khalil, congratulations on your new role! what excites you most about leading conservation efforts at the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds?
Dr. kathayoon Khalil: Thank you, Emily. What excites me most is the chance to build on the astonishing legacy of the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds.Both institutions are globally recognized for their leadership in wildlife conservation. My vision is to enhance programs that inspire people to connect with nature while driving meaningful conservation impact locally and globally. I’m especially passionate about fostering collaborative partnerships in innovative conservation science, which I believe is key to addressing today’s environmental challenges.
A Career Rooted in Conservation
Emily Carter: Your career spans nearly two decades in conservation and environmental education. How have your past roles prepared you for this position?
Dr. Kathayoon Khalil: Every role I’ve held has uniquely contributed to my preparation for this position. At the New England aquarium, I managed the strategic vision for Conservation Learning, which involved creating programs that educate and inspire action. My time as Conservation impact manager at the Oregon Zoo taught me how to lead impactful conservation initiatives on the ground. Additionally, my role as Director of Engagement at Canopy Strategic Partners helped me develop strategies to engage diverse audiences in conservation efforts. These experiences have given me a well-rounded outlook on how to drive effective conservation programs.
Connecting People with Nature
Emily Carter: One of your key goals is to connect people with nature. Why is this so important, and how do you plan to achieve it?
Dr.Kathayoon Khalil: Connecting people with nature is the foundation of conservation. When people feel a personal connection to the natural world, they’re more likely to take action to protect it. At the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds, we’ll focus on creating immersive experiences that allow visitors to engage with wildlife in meaningful ways. This includes educational programs, interactive exhibits, and community outreach initiatives. We also plan to leverage technology, like virtual reality and digital storytelling, to reach broader audiences and inspire conservation action beyond our physical locations.
Building on a Legacy
Emily Carter: The Columbus Zoo and The Wilds have a long history of conservation leadership. How do you plan to build on this legacy?
Dr.Kathayoon Khalil: The Columbus Zoo and The Wilds have set a high standard for conservation excellence,and I’m honored to contribute to this legacy. My focus will be on advancing innovative conservation science programs that address critical issues like habitat loss,climate change,and biodiversity decline.We’ll also strengthen partnerships with organizations and communities to amplify our impact. Additionally, I’m committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning and evaluation within our teams to ensure our programs remain effective and impactful.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Emily Carter: You’ve emphasized the importance of inspiring new generations to take action for conservation. How do you see the columbus Zoo playing a role in this?
Dr. Kathayoon Khalil: The Columbus Zoo has a unique opportunity to inspire young people through its educational programs and conservation initiatives. We’ll focus on creating opportunities for youth to engage in hands-on conservation projects, whether it’s through school programs, internships, or volunteer opportunities.We’ll also work to make our messaging more accessible and relatable, using storytelling and social media to reach younger audiences. Ultimately, our goal is to empower the next generation to become active stewards of the planet.
Looking Ahead
Emily Carter: As you begin this new chapter,what are your hopes for the future of conservation at the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds?
Dr. Kathayoon Khalil: My hope is that we continue to lead by example, showing how zoos and aquariums can play a vital role in global conservation. I want to see our programs not only protect wildlife but also inspire meaningful change in how people interact with the natural world. By fostering a deeper connection between people and nature, we can create a more lasting future for all.
Conclusion
Dr. Kathayoon Khalil’s appointment marks a pivotal moment for the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds. With her extensive experience, innovative vision, and passion for conservation, she is poised to lead transformative programs that protect wildlife and inspire action. As she steps into her new role, Dr. Khalil’s leadership promises to strengthen the organization’s mission of empowering people and saving wildlife, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.
