Association of Zoos and Aquariums

National Aviary In Pittsburgh Receives Honors For Education Program

CONTACT: Jane Ballentine, (301)562-0777 x252

COLUMBUS, OH 11 September 2003 -- The American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA) today honored the National Aviary, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with a Significant Achievement Award for the “Connecting the Classroom: Educating People About the Wonders of Birds via the World Wide Web.” Aviary officials accepted the award at the AZA's 79th Annual Conference, meeting here this week.

The National Aviary has created a freed education tool to reach students from around the world. The unique web curriculum is an interactive, hands-on science program on the World Wide Web. It combines technology in a way that engages people of all ages while educating them about the wonderful world of birds. Designed in collaboration with Firehaus Design in Chicago, IL, this program offers on-line activities that allow Aviary educators to visually explain concepts that are difficult to explain through words alone.

Each year, AZA recognizes achievement in the area of education by offering competition among its Institution, Related Organization and Society members. Judging is conducted by a panel of individuals selected by the Conservation Education Committee.

Note: For more information contact Tiffani Sander at 412/323-7235, x 215.

The American Zoo and Aquarium Association was founded in 1924 and currently represents 213 accredited zoos and aquariums in North America. AZA's mission is to support membership excellence in conservation, education, science and recreation.