Inspectors

Message to Current and Potential Inspectors

Service as an accreditation inspector is a huge responsibility and requires a tremendous amount of work. Inspectors are a critical part of the accreditation process. AZA, and every institution it has accredited, relies on inspectors to do a thorough job and make an unbiased evaluation based upon accreditation standards and modern zoological practices and philosophies.

In addition to having professional expertise and sufficient experience, inspectors must be willing to follow instructions, study hard in advance, allow sufficient time and have sufficient patience to inspect, be capable of making tough decisions if necessary, remain impartial, and maintain complete confidentiality. The report and recommendations each team provides to the Accreditation Commission are an integral part of the process, and the list of concerns that each team generates provides an institution with a clear outline of items that must be successfully addressed before accreditation can be considered.

While the inspectors themselves do not determine whether an institution is ultimately accredited or not (that is the decision of the Accreditation Commission), inspectors serve as the "eyes and ears" of the Commission, and create a guide for professional improvement. AZA is grateful to all the experts who participate in this important process! Please visit the profiles of our Accreditation Inspectors of the Year.

Accreditation Inspector's Handbook

Visiting Committee Members may download the Inspector's Handbook (PDF) or contact the AZA office at 301-562-0777 to receive a copy.

September 2025 Accreditation Inspectors

A big thank you . . .

Each year, many professional colleagues volunteer their time to assist the Accreditation Commission by conducting accreditation inspections and certification inspections. The process is a dynamic one that continues to educate and enrich all involved. We are lucky to have the pleasure of working with the individuals involved in the inspections. On behalf of the Accreditation Commission, and AZA, we wish to recognize and express our sincere gratitude to all who assisted with our Spring/Summer cycle and participated in inspections of institutions and related facilities that processed in September 2025. They have performed an enormously important service for AZA and for our profession.

Jennifer DiNenna
Vice President, Accreditation Programs

Cheri Abramson
Director, Accreditation Programs

Ashley Helm
Coordinator, Accreditation Programs 

Mike Christiansen
Program Assistant, Accreditation Programs