|
You are here: Home > Honors & Awards > Perkins Award Winner: Lester E. Fisher, DVM |
R. Marlin Perkins Award: 1996
AZA Honorary Member
Lester E. Fisher, DVM
AZA President 1972-1973
Lincoln Park Zoo
Les was born in Chicago, Illinois, on February 24, 1921. He received his DVM from Iowa State University in 1943. From 1943 to 1946, he served in the Veterinary Corps AUS, attaining the rank of Major, after which he became Supervisor of the animal care program at Northwestern University Medical School (1946-1947). He was also the owner and director of Berwyn (Illinois) Animal Hospital (1947-1968), Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at DePaul University (1968-1998), and Adjunct Professor of Zoology at the University of Illinois (1972-present).
Les was Veterinarian at Lincoln Park Zoo from 1947-1962, Director from 1962-1992, and Director Emeritus from 1992 to the present. He was also a member of the International Union of Directors of Zoological Gardens (Vice President 1980-1983; President 1983-1986) and the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians (President 1966-1969).
As a member of AZA, Les was one of the original Incorporators when the AZA became independent, has served on the Board of Directors (1967-1974), and was Chair of the Gorilla Species Survival Plan (1982-1992).
As the second President of the newly independent AZA, he implemented the direction set by his predecessor (Gary Clarke) and oversaw the establishment of International Species Information System. During his presidency, a significant increase in federal legislation affecting zoos was dealt with (including major revisions to the Endangered Species Act), and the Regional Conference Proceedings began publication. Les was awarded AZA’s highest honor, the R. Marlin Perkins Award in 1996.
© Copyright 2008 Association of Zoos and Aquariums. All Rights Reserved.