Dr. Mark Penning Named Director of North Carolina Zoo

The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) today announced the appointment of Dr. Mark Penning as the new director of the North Carolina Zoo.

Dr. Penning recently announced his retirement as vice president of animals, science, and environment for Disney Experiences, part of the Walt Disney Company. There he oversaw animal care, conservation, and environmental initiatives at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Animal Kingdom Lodge and The Seas with Nemo and Friends at Epcot, and at Disney parks around the world.

"I am excited that Dr. Mark Penning will soon be joining the North Carolina Zoo," said Governor Josh Stein. "His leadership, experience, and vision will enable him to take the North Carolina Zoo, the world's largest natural habitat Zoo, to the next level and enhance the visitor experience. I can't wait to see what he and the team at the Zoo create."

"We are thrilled to have Dr. Penning joining us at DNCR and the North Carolina Zoo," said DNCR Secretary Pamela B. Cashwell. "He is a world leader in animal care and conservation and truly understands and supports the Zoo's mission.

A veterinarian by training with a special interest in wildlife, Dr. Penning previously served as CEO of the South African Association for Marine Biological Research in Durban, South Africa. He has also served as president of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums and as a board member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Dr. Penning currently sits on the board of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International and serves as a Trustee of Wild Welfare, an animal welfare organization.

"I am very excited to be moving to the beautiful state of North Carolina and joining the fabulous team at the North Carolina Zoo," Penning said. "I have long admired the zoo with its stunningly picturesque setting, modern animal habitats, engaging experiences for visitors, and talented team of zoo professionals. They have created a world-class destination where families can connect with nature and with each other and experience the joy and wonder of being outdoors. It is an honor and a privilege for me to join the team."

Dr. Penning will begin his tenure as director of the North Carolina Zoo this summer.

About the North Carolina Zoo
At the North Carolina Zoo, we celebrate nature. As the world's largest natural habitat Zoo, we inspire a lifelong curiosity about animals in the hundreds of thousands of people who visit our Zoo each year. Our dedicated team of experts provides exceptional, compassionate care for the more than 1,700 animals and 52,000 plants that call our Park home. We also lead efforts locally and globally to protect wildlife and wild places because we believe nature's diversity is critical for our collective future. The North Carolina Zoo invites all of our guests to witness the majesty of the wild in the heart of North Carolina and welcomes everyone to join in our mission to protect nature's diversity. Visit NCZoo.org to begin your life-changing journey.

About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural ResourcesThe N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina - its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. At more than 100 sites across the state, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency. For more information, please visit https://www.dncr.nc.gov.

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