JODY CASSELL NAMED DEPUTY DIRECTOR AT THE BIRMINGHAM ZOO

Jody Cassell joined the Birmingham Zoo in February as deputy director. Previously, Cassell spent more than 20 years at the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, Florida in a variety of leadership positions with the latest being director of guest experience and vendor management. She also was the director on conservation at the Brevard Zoo and won national awards for her efforts. At the Birmingham Zoo, she will oversee animal health, operations, maintenance, landscaping, learning and engagement, plus living collection and animal care.

“I am honored to join the incredible Birmingham Zoo team and look forward to working together to advance our mission of Inspiring Passion for the Natural World,” said Cassell. “Our zoo is a vital resource for education and conservation and I am committed to supporting our talented teams and creating enriching experiences for our visitors while providing the highest level of care for our incredible animals,” she said.  “This year marks the 70^th Anniversary for Birmingham Zoo and I’m delighted to join the team during this year of celebration!”

Cassell has a B.S. in Applied Behavior Analysis from Florida Institute of Technology and also studied at Rollins College. She is a graduate of the Executive Leadership Team Development Program and other development programs with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). She won the AZA Green Award for sustainability and was named a Field and Stream Magazine Conservation Hero.

“Birmingham Zoo is the only facility in Alabama accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) which maintains the highest standards for animal wellbeing, conservation excellence and multi-generational education.  This ensures that our guests will have the best experience imaginable as they encounter our amazing animal residents from across the globe.  They each have a story worth sharing and it’s our pleasure to facilitate these magical moments.”

“Making the move from Florida has been a wonderful transition as Alabama has welcomed me with hiking trails, lakes and the kindest of people,” she said.  “Every day I get to wake up and live my childhood dream; I can’t imagine a better way of life.  I look forward to a long and robust career here with the Birmingham Zoo team! ”

MEDIA CONTACT 

Bill Lang – Director, Marketing & Events; [email protected]; 205.218.3561. High res images and interviews available.

SOCIAL MEDIA – Facebook @BirminghamZoo; Instagram @bhamzoo

www.birminghamzoo.com I 2630 Cahaba Road I Birmingham, AL 35223

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THE BIRMINGHAM ZOO MISSION Inspiring Passion to Conserve the Natural World.