By Asia Nail
The Truth Reporter
Nestled in the heart of Northwest Ohio, the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium stands as a guiding light of community engagement, education, and conservation. Under the visionary leadership of Chief Operating Officer & Executive Vice President Shayla Bell Moriarty, the Zoo has continued to evolve, cementing its place as a beloved institution that is not only a local treasure but also a model for wildlife reserves across the nation.
Moriarty, a Notre Dame Academy and John Carroll University alumna, has been in the number two position at the Toledo Zoo since November 2022 (Jeff Sailer serves as the Zoo’s CEO). Her journey began in 2016 when she joined the Zoo as Chief of Staff & Senior VP. With nearly a decade of experience, Moriarty has been instrumental in driving the Zoo’s mission forward.
A Passion for Innovation and Community
Her passion for the Zoo is clear. “Every day is different, and I think that’s the fun part of what I do,” she shares with a smile.
“What matters most to me is demonstrating results and tangible impact.”
With a strong background in communications and development, Shayla is equipped with a unique perspective on how to engage the community and create innovative programming that resonates with people of all ages.
Reflecting on her journey, she recalls, “Before I began working here, I remember participating in a charity event at the Hollywood Casino, where we supported the Zoo. I’ve always believed in its mission and the impact it has on communities. This belief has driven my leadership, guiding my efforts through the years to make our Toledo Zoo a place the community loves to visit.”
It’s simple. The executive team and staff make it their mission to make the Zoo a place everyone loves to explore. “We want people to find the zoo relevant no matter their age, background, or where they live,” Moriarty explains. This inclusive approach is evident in the wide range of programs and events that the Zoo offers, ensuring that there is truly something for all.
Bringing the Zoo to Life
One of the most exciting aspects of the Toledo Zoo is its ability to bring the community together through a variety of events and programs. From the highly anticipated Lights Before Christmas to the fun and festive ZOOtoDO, the Zoo’s events offer multi-generational experiences, no matter the season.
ZOOtoDO, a fan-favorite event, has become a staple of the Zoo’s annual calendar. “Every year, we seek to offer innovative elements to all of our top-rated events,” says Moriarty.
But the zoo is not just about entertainment; it’s also about creating cherished memories. The Lights Before Christmas event, which features over one million lights, illuminated animal images, and a newly redesigned Winter Village, is a perfect example of this.
“Our team worked tirelessly to create the enhanced Winter Village, and we hope it will become a cherished holiday tradition for years to come,” Shayla shares.
A Commitment to Education and Conservation
Beyond its engaging events, the Toledo Zoo is deeply committed to education and conservation. The mission—‘Enjoy. Inspire. Educate. Act.’—reflects the staff’s dedication to inspiring guests to become advocates for wildlife and conservation.
The Zoo’s educational programs are vast and varied. From behind-the-scenes tours that provide exclusive encounters with ambassador animals to community preschool programs offering free educational experiences, they are committed to making education accessible.
One of the standout educational initiatives is Project PRAIRIE, a collaboration between the Zoo’s Conservation and Education Departments. This program installs native prairie habitats on public school campuses throughout northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan, turning these spaces into living labs for students and teachers.
“Teachers and students develop a strong connection to ecology and the meaning behind our conservation program,” Moriarty explains. The project is an example of how the Zoo extends its reach beyond its physical boundaries, impacting the community in meaningful ways.
“The Zoo’s educational offerings are extensive. It features over 266 camps and family programs, 290 community preschool sessions, and 1,160 school programs annually. These initiatives serve as a hub of learning and engagement, educating and inspiring the next generation of conservationists.”
Building a Legacy for the Future
“Our Toledo Zoo membership program has achieved the highest per capita membership rate among zoos in the United States,” Shayla proudly states. With over 76,000 households as members, the Zoo has created a community of supporters who agree that it is a vital and cherished part of the Toledo area.
As the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium continues to grow and evolve, Moriarty is focused on ensuring that the Zoo remains welcoming to all.
This commitment to inclusivity is evident in the Zoo’s Membership For All program, which provides sponsored memberships to third-party organizations like Moms House and others, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the magic of the Zoo.
“When you have a membership you’re not limited to visiting the zoo on Lucas County Mondays, now you can come whenever you want and access your discounts anytime you visit,” says Shayla.
The Zoo’s impact on the community is vibrant and undeniable. Programs like the Toledo Clinic Early Birds early walking sessions energize your morning, offering visitors a behind-the-scenes look as keepers prepare exhibits and staff get event spaces ready. “We walk from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. every morning, from spring until the end of fall,” Moriarty shares.
“Not only will you see the Zoo come to life, you will see your taxpayer dollars hard at work.”
From adult beverages at zoo events to concert series and all types of activities, the Toledo Zoo offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to different interests across all ages.
A Model for Other Zoos and Wildlife Reserves
The Toledo Zoo’s success is not just a source of pride for the local community; it is also a model for other zoos across the nation. The Zoo & Aquarium’s commitment to conservation, education and community engagement sets it apart as a leader in the field. As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the Toledo Zoo is highly regarded for its excellent care for animals, outstanding visitor experiences, and contributions to global wildlife conservation.
With an impact extending far beyond its Toledo gates, the Toledo Zoo’s programs and initiatives are inspiring other zoos to adopt similar approaches, creating a ripple effect of positive change in the world of conservation and education.
Go to toledozoo.org for events & updates