Photo courtesy of the Dallas Zoo.
Former Knoxville Zoo CEO and President Lisa New has been named the Dallas Zoo’s first female CEO following a nationwide search to fill the position, a statement issued Monday said.
New succeeds Gregg Hudson, who served as CEO and President of the Dallas Zoo for 16 years and died in April following a short battle with cancer. New will take over the CEO role in January, 2024.
“It is a great honor and responsibility to be entrusted with the legacy that is Dallas Zoo,” New said in a statement. “Several years ago, my friend and mentor, the late Gregg Hudson, inspired me to align my passion, profession, vocation and mission … It has guided me ever since, and I am excited to begin this chapter with an iconic institution that has a long history of setting the standard that others follow.”
Throughout her 10 years as Knoxville Zoo CEO, New is credited with leading initiatives that increased attendance and revenue by 52% and 105%, respectively. Habitats built under New’s leadership also claimed architectural and exhibit usage and design awards.
Dawn Moore, Chair of the Dallas Zoo Board of Directors, said New’s list of career achievements made her a top candidate for the Dallas Zoo CEO job.
In an interview with the Dallas Morning News, Moore said the challenges faced by the Zoo this year, such as a string of burglaries that culminated with stolen animals, and Hudson’s sudden passing, left the board looking for a leader who could “inspire.”
“We found ourselves with the opportunity to bring in a well-respected and recognized leader with the ideal mix of skills to propel our Dallas Zoo to the next level, and we jumped at the chance,” Moore said.
