The 2026 Multi-Organization Professional Development Symposium brought together leaders and professionals from across the zoological and aquarium community for two inspiring days of collaboration, learning, and connection. Hosted in partnership with Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums, Zoological Association of America, and Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, the event showcased the power of shared knowledge and collective progress in advancing animal care, conservation, and professional excellence.
Setting the Stage for Collaboration
The Symposium opened on an energizing and collaborative note, setting the tone for a two-day program focused on best practices, networking, and shared purpose across the zoological community.
Participants were welcomed by Tina Maisonneuve, CEO of Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums, who delivered inspiring opening remarks highlighting the strength that comes from working together across institutions and organizations. Her message reinforced the importance of collaboration in addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities facing zoos and aquariums today.
Advancing Standards Through Accreditation
The key session, “Accreditation & Certification,” featured insights from Trish Gerth of African Lion Safari. The presentation emphasized the importance of maintaining rigorous accreditation standards as the foundation for operational excellence, ethical animal care, and sustained public trust.
Accreditation programs play a critical role in ensuring that institutions continue to evolve and meet the highest professional standards across animal welfare, conservation, and public engagement.
The Power of Partnerships
A standout presentation titled “If You Want to Go Far, Go Together” was delivered by Clint Wright from Vancouver Aquarium. The session explored how strategic partnerships across organizations and disciplines can drive meaningful progress in conservation and animal care.
Wright’s presentation reinforced a central theme echoed throughout the Symposium: collaboration strengthens our ability to innovate, solve complex challenges, and amplify conservation impact.
Linking Logistics and Animal Welfare
Another thought-provoking session, “The Journey Matters: Linking Logistics and Welfare via Multimodal Transport,” was presented by Menita Prasad of Greater Vancouver Zoo.
This presentation offered a compassionate and practical perspective on how transport planning directly influences positive animal welfare outcomes. By examining multimodal transport strategies, the session highlighted the importance of thoughtful logistics, preparation, and collaboration when animals are moved between institutions.
Addressing Complex Animal Transport
The Symposium also featured an important discussion on the complexities of animal transport and regulatory considerations. Dean Treichel of Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums moderated the session “Transport or Complex Journeys: Animal Import, Export, and Transport.”
This session explored the regulatory, logistical, and welfare considerations involved in animal movement between institutions, emphasizing the importance of planning, communication, and adherence to best practices.
A Shared Commitment to Progress
The success of the Symposium was made possible through the strong partnership between Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums, Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums, and Zoological Association of America.
This collaboration exemplifies the spirit of cooperation, shared leadership, and knowledge exchange that drives progress within the zoological community.
Through engaging presentations, meaningful discussions, and valuable networking opportunities, the 2026 Multi-Organization Professional Development Symposium reinforced an essential message: partnerships, shared learning, and collaboration are key to advancing animal care, conservation, and professional excellence across our network.
As our community continues to work together, events like this Symposium demonstrate the collective commitment to strengthening standards, supporting professionals, and protecting wildlife for generations to come.
