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Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens names new president and CEO

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens on Wednesday announced Dr. Jeff Ettling as its new President and CEO.

Ettling will take over for Executive Director Tony Vecchio, who announced his retirement in October.

“As we look to the future, the board is confident that Jeff is the right person to carry on the long legacy of supporting conservation programs and providing the highest level of animal wellness,” said Chuck Ged, Board Chair in a news release. “Jeff’s experience, commitment to operational excellence, and passion for wildlife make him well qualified to lead the organization into the next phase as we continue to drive change.”

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Ettling comes from Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita, Kansas, where he has served as President and CEO since 2017. He previously spent 21 years at the Saint Louis Zoo, where he managed one of the largest collections of amphibians and reptiles in the world.

“I am honored to join the talented team at JZG, board members, and dedicated network of community, donors, and partners in this role,” said Ettling. “I look forward to extending these relationships as we build on the achievements of the past 100 years and chart the future of JZG together.”

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens names Jeff Ettling as new president, CEO