Lisa Keith has overseen a lot of changes since she became director of the David Traylor Zoo in 2008. Now another change awaits: retirement.
Keith is stepping aside after 32 years of work at the zoo, including the last 16 as director.
Emporia Friends of the Zoo member Erren Harter says Keith has had a “monumental impact” on both the zoo and the Emporia community throughout her tenure.
Emporia City Manager Trey Cocking says Keith has agreed to stay on in her current role until her replacement is secured. He tells KVOE News the ideal candidate will be someone who can match the passion that Keith brought to the role.
Keith completed a strategic and master plan in 2019, leading to the nearly $5 million Oasis capital campaign that has already borne fruit in several ways, including a new zoo entrance and several redesigned exhibits. More is to come as part of the master plan and fundraising campaign, including a new North American river otter exhibit.
Keith also helped to establish the zoo’s first endowment fund, the Forever Fund, and she paved the way for the outreach coordinator position to go from part-time to full-time status. Keith led numerous conservation efforts for monarch butterflies, turtles and songbirds, and she oversaw the birth of numerous endangered animals during her tenure.
Under her leadership, annual attendance has nearly tripled from 30,000 to over 80,000 visitors.
Keith will stay on as director until a replacement is hired. She will be on KVOE’s Newsmaker segment at 7:20 am Thursday with more on her career and upcoming retirement.
