As the Advancing Minority Leadership in Aquariums & Zoos Program (AMLAZ) enters its second year, Canopy is proud to continue our sponsorship of this vital leadership development opportunity. Learn more about Chris Conner and Yetta Robinson, two of our sponsored participants.
Meet Chris Conner
Manager, King Conservation Science Scholars — Brookfield Zoo Chicago
What inspired you to apply to AMLAZ?
Aside from being a strong advocate for dismantling inequitable systems especially in the conservation field, there are a few other reasons why I decided to apply to AMLAZ. Academically, I’m less than a year away from finishing my PhD, and I’ve already grown a lot as a researcher and scholar. I wanted to make sure that my leadership personality was evolving just as much as my academic one. With that, professionally, I’m always looking to better understand the nuisance of my own leadership style that allows or prevents me from moving into different areas of impact and influence. And on a personal note, a close friend and colleague who I respect deeply, Rosalio, was part of the first cohort, and what stood out to me most was not just his professional growth, but the incredible personal transformation he went through as well. Overall, it just seemed like the perfect opportunity for me given where and who I am right now in life.
What are you looking to learn/gain from this experience?
I’m really looking forward to improving in the areas I mentioned earlier. Academically, I know this program will push me to better contextualize what I’m learning in more meaningful ways, enabling me to apply it more equitably in real-world situations, especially when it comes to building relationships and pedagogical infrastructure. Professionally, I’m excited to keep learning how to build a stronger, supportive network, not just for myself, but also for those who come after me. I want to help connect people, especially those who look like me, to opportunities and resources that traditionally have been inaccessible. I hope I can help create more pathways for others to get the support I didn’t have.
And personally, I’m looking forward to connecting with colleagues on a deeper level, beyond just the work. This field and the work, despite its importance, can be incredibly taxing, and learning new strategies for resilience, self-care, and mental well-being is vital for long-term success. Strengthening relationships outside of the work with those who intimately understand it will definitely help us, especially me, grow and support each other.
Anything else?
Without the direct support from Canopy Strategic Partners, I wouldn’t have had access to this opportunity. I’m grateful for their commitment to fostering diversity in leadership within conservation, and I’m excited to help move their vision forward. This experience is equipping me with the skills and knowledge to become a more effective leader, committed to continuing to promote equity and drive change in the future.
Meet Yetta Robinson
Evening/Weekend Educator — Zoo Atlanta
Senior Director, Youth Development Programs & Innovation — Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA)
What inspired you to apply to the AMLAZ Program?
For the past few years, I have started making an intentional effort to consider how I show up professionally. Part of this work has included assessing both professional strengths and areas for improvement. This program provides supports and resources to help me become a better leader for both of my institutions.
Additionally, it is important to me that I find ways to advance the discourse around representation throughout our industry. This program not only allows me to connect with other BIPOC leaders in the zoo and aquarium world, but also advances the notion of inclusivity being critical for the future of our field. Being a part of that —helping to push us forward— is exciting!
What are you looking to learn/gain from this experience?
I am looking to learn how to effectively identify and formulate plans for my skill gaps. For example, I know I need to strengthen competencies such as vision casting and intentional, meaningful collaboration, but what does that look like in practice? This program provides a network of people or resources who can help me strengthen certain areas.
Finally, I’m hoping to build a community with others who are also a part of this program and other BIPOC leaders in zoo and aquariums, in general. My journey in this space hasn’t always been easy. Being a Black, woman in this space isn’t always easy. So, continuing to build relationships with others would be amazing.
Anything else?
I left my zoo three years ago, feeling the need for a change. I returned to the zoo in January 2024 because there’s so much work for us to accomplish in the zoo/aquarium field…so much to push forward. I am dedicated to ensuring zoological institutions truly are places for all and committing myself to this program is a great place to start!
