Jim Anderson, Director, Fort Wayne Children's Zoo
Jim joined AZA in 1979 and has been involved in the accreditation program since 1992. He has participated in twenty inspections, serving as Team Chair seventeen times. Jim served on the Accreditation Commission from 1996-2002, was reappointed in 2011, and now serves as the Vice-Chair of the Commission. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from Purdue University and a Master's degree in Public Administration from Indiana University. Thirty-seven years ago Jim began his zoo career as a summer employee at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo. He moved through the ranks serving as a train operator, zoo keeper, supervisor, curator, and assistant director. He has served as the zoo's Director since 1994. Jim has previously served on the AZA Board of Directors, Ethics Board, Honors & Awards Committee, Charter & Bylaws Committee, and Nominating Committee. He has also served on several SSPs and TAGs. His knowledge and passion for the zoo and aquarium industry is evident in every task he undertakes.