Association of Zoos and Aquariums

A New Day for AZA

CONTACT: Kris Vehrs, AZA, (301)562-0777, x 229

SILVER SPRING, MD, September 26, 2006 – Today at its Annual Conference, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) ushered in a new era with a new name, new logo and new leader. With these changes, the association is poised for a future of growth, action and leadership in wildlife conservation.

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums was called the American Zoo and Aquarium Association from 1994 to 2006. During this time, there was often confusion that the association's acronym, AZA, did not match its name. The new name eliminates confusion and allows the organization to keep the same initials, as well as making it clear to the public what the organization is and what it is about.

In addition to its new name, AZA has a unique and distinctive new logo. The logo helps communicate the association's dedication to its bold vision for the future, and positions it as a professional, authoritative voice among its many constituent groups.

The unveiling of the association's new name and logo is the culmination of a lengthy evaluation of AZA's role, image and identity. These changes reflect AZA's goal to raise public awareness of the organization, its more than 200 accredited zoos and aquariums, and their aim to inspire wildlife conservation by creating a connection between animals and people.

AZA also welcomes Jim Maddy, its new President and Chief Executive Officer, to his first Annual Conference for the organization. Maddy joined AZA in April; he has a long and distinguished career supporting the conservation of wildlife and wild places.

Maddy's leadership experience also includes nine years as president of the National Parks Foundation, Washington, D.C., which generates private funding to protect national parks resources and enhance visitor experience. Prior to NPF, Maddy was president of the League of Conservation Voters, the federal election arm of the major national environmental advocacy organizations. Earlier he was executive director of the Western Governors' Association. "I am fortunate to join AZA when the association is making significant changes," said Maddy.

"With 143 million people visiting AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums every year; our wonderful animals; our incredible, professional staff; our education, science and conservation programs; and our valued partnerships with conservation organizations around the world, no organization is better positioned to lead the charge to build North America's largest wildlife conservation movement."

AZA's new name and logo were created to be the organization's face; its heart remains the same. AZA is a progressive, responsible organization dedicated to engaging and inspiring the 143 million annual visitors who visit its more than 200 accredited zoos and aquariums in the need for active wildlife conservation behavior.

About AZA

Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. Look for the AZA logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. With its more than 200 accredited members, the AZA is a leader in global wildlife conservation, and your link to helping animals in their native habitats.

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