Columbus Zoo and Aquarium chooses VP and director of conservation programs
- (Photo Provided) The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium/The Wilds’ choice for Vice President and Director of conservation programs.

(Photo Provided) The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium/The Wilds’ choice for Vice President and Director of conservation programs.
POWELL, Ohio — The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has named Dr. Kathayoon Khalil as the vice president and director of the Zoo and The Wilds’ conservation programs.
Khalil, who has over 20 years of experience in environmental education, conservation strategy, and program evaluation, joins the Zoo to spearhead wildlife conservation initiatives. She officially began her role on Jan. 22.
The Columbus Zoo and The Wilds are a leading force in local, regional, and global conservation efforts. In her new role, Khalil will oversee all conservation programming and projects for the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds, aiming to advance collaborative partnerships in innovative conservation science toward even more impactful programs that connect people with nature and drive impactful conservation efforts locally and globally.
“Dr. Khalil brings a wealth of experience, passion, and a track record of impactful conservation work,” said Dr. Jan Ramer, senior vice president of animal care and conservation for the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds. “We are excited to see her lead our already impactful conservation programming and project efforts, continuing to develop innovative programs and expanding our mission of ‘Empowering People. Saving Wildlife.’ locally and globally. Her guidance will undoubtedly strengthen our ability to connect people with nature and inspire actionable conservation efforts to make a difference.”
Prior to joining the Columbus Zoo, Khalil served as Associate Vice President at the New England Aquarium, where she managed the creation and implementation of its strategic vision for Conservation Learning, including a community needs assessment, development of the Aquarium’s first Youth Advisory Council, and overseeing education programming.
Her extensive experience also includes roles such as Conservation Impact Manager at the Oregon Zoo and Director of Engagement at Canopy Strategic Partners. Throughout her career, Khalil has demonstrated a passion for integrating conservation with diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, creating programs that inspire transformative environmental stewardship.
Khalil’s academic achievements reflect her dedication to environmental education. She earned her Ph.D. in Education, Learning Sciences, and Technology Design from Stanford University, preceded by a Master of Environmental Science from Yale University. As an adjunct professor through Miami University’s Project Dragonfly program, she has facilitated courses in conservation science and biodiversity, engaging students with hands-on experiences in ecosystems across the globe.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Khalil is an advocate for innovation and inclusivity in conservation, co-authoring several publications addressing the intersection of empathy, community learning, and environmental action.
“I am incredibly honored to join the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds, which are recognized worldwide for their leadership in wildlife conservation,” Khalil said. “I look forward to collaborating with the team to advance innovative conservation initiatives and build on the organization’s legacy of protecting wildlife and their habitats.”