In recognition of the outstanding achievements of Robert O. Wagner and to encourage participation in the AZA Professional Development Program, the Professional Development Committee offers to aquarium and zoo professionals the Robert O. Wagner Scholarship to provide additional financial opportunities for individuals and institutions.

Applicants for the Robert O. Wagner award demonstrate committed professional involvement in AZA programs or conservation activities, leadership ability or leadership potential and a dedication to professional growth. Applicants must be an AZA individual member employed in an AZA zoo, aquarium or related facility. Members of international AZA institutions are also welcome to apply. This award is based on merit alone and not on need.

This award may be applied toward any of the AZA Professional Development Courses.

Scholarship Application

Click here for the 2017 application. Applications are due July 14, 2017. Full submission information is included in the application. Only one scholarship application may be submitted per individual per year. Applications are evaluated and recipients are chosen by the AZA Professional Development Committee.

Please note: If you do not receive the award and plan to take the course anyway, the scholarship application does not represent a reserved space in an AZA course. To secure a space in a course you must submit a complete registration and pay the tuition in full. If you receive the award, your full tuition payment will be refunded.

Detailed Award Coverage

• Course registration (full)
• Round-trip airfare from the award recipient’s point of origin to the destination city (up to $550)
• Round-trip airport shuttle ground transportation (full)
• Hotel/lodging throughout the duration of the course (based on double occupancy rate)
• A stipend to cover meals and incidentals.

Any questions, contact the Professional Development Program Manager at scholarships@aza.org or call 301-562-0777 ext 240.