Brookfield Zoo And Chicago Zoological Society Name New CEO

BROOKFIELD, IL — Brookfield Zoo has a new pack leader.

After a search lasting over a year and a half, the zoo announced Friday that Dr. Michael Adkesson, DVM, has been named Director of Brookfield Zoo, and President and CEO of the Chicago Zoological Society. His appointment will begin Friday, Oct. 15.

“To be chosen as the President and CEO of a world-renowned institution of the significance of the Chicago Zoological Society is an absolute honor,” Dr. Adkesson said. “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to lead this great organization and build upon the zoo’s rich history of success in animal care and conservation. As one of Chicagoland’s top cultural institutions, Brookfield Zoo touches the lives of millions of people every year, inspiring them to conserve and protect animals and habitats. I will remain steadfast in the Society’s commitment to providing the best in animal care and supporting its dedicated and passionate staff. I look forward to continuing to transform Brookfield Zoo through new animal habitats and memorable experiences that engage guests of all ages. With species vanishing from this earth every day, zoos play a critical role in conservation today more than ever.”

The board has been searching for a new permanent director since February 2020, when longtime director Dr. Stuart D. Strahl announced his retirement.

Dr. Adkesson, DVM, MBA, Dipl. ACZM & ECZM, is a board-certified specialist in zoological medicine, according to a news release from the Brookfield Zoo. Adkesson has been working with the Brookfield Zoo since 2008, when he joined as an associate veterinarian. Since 2012, Adkesson has served as CZS’s Vice President of Clinical Medicine, overseeing all veterinary programs and hospital operations.

Adkesson is also an adjunct clinical professor at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary medicine, where he has trained hundreds of veterinary students, interns, and residents, according to the release. He has also spent over a decade overseeing conservations programs in Peru focusing on Humboldt penguins, Peruvian fur seals, and other marine wildlife. Adkessons also holds an associate position at Cayetano Haredia University in Peru.

Adkesson is board-certified by the American College of Veterinary Medicine and the European College of Zoological Medicine, according to the Brookfield Zoo news release. He is a Professional Fellow of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and a past president of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians. He has authored or co-authored over 60 peer-reviewed publications, and over 75 abstracts and conference presentations.

Adkesson graduated with highest honors from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, and completed his residency in zoological medicine at the St. Louis Zoo and the University of Missouri.

“In Dr. Adkesson, we have found an outstanding and committed leader who is dedicated to the conservation of wildlife, who is an experienced manager, and who is widely respected by the staff and by professional colleagues for his work in the zoological field,” Dr. Strahl said.