Carroll and Milwaukee County Zoo Commemorate 30-Year Partnership
Carroll University is proud to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its unique partnership with the Milwaukee County Zoo, a collaboration that has offered generations of students unparalleled opportunities
to study animal behavior in a real-world environment.
Launched in 1995, the partnership allows Carroll biology and animal behavior students to conduct semester-long research projects within the zoo’s exhibits. Throughout the experience, the Milwaukee County Zoo provides access to animal habitats, logistical support, project ideas and expert education from staff and volunteers. In return, Carroll students present their research findings at a poster symposium attended by zoo staff, volunteers and visitors. These presentations give the zoo detailed, in-depth analyses of animal behavior – insights that are difficult to replicate in a traditional classroom setting.
Over the last three decades, more than 400 Carroll students have engaged in research through this program. Many alumni have gone on to successful careers in zoos and aquaria across the country. Other alumni have continued conducting wildlife research in graduate school or pursued professional paths in veterinary and human medicine.
Launched in 1995, the partnership allows Carroll biology and animal behavior students to conduct semester-long research projects within the zoo’s exhibits. Throughout the experience, the Milwaukee County Zoo provides access to animal habitats, logistical support, project ideas and expert education from staff and volunteers. In return, Carroll students present their research findings at a poster symposium attended by zoo staff, volunteers and visitors. These presentations give the zoo detailed, in-depth analyses of animal behavior – insights that are difficult to replicate in a traditional classroom setting.
Over the last three decades, more than 400 Carroll students have engaged in research through this program. Many alumni have gone on to successful careers in zoos and aquaria across the country. Other alumni have continued conducting wildlife research in graduate school or pursued professional paths in veterinary and human medicine.
- Laura Owens ’24 – a wildlife biologist for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
- Theresa Wawiorka ’19 – a zookeeper at the Milwaukee County Zoo
- Dr. Tyler Wittmann ’14 – a medical doctor at Froedtert who conducted research at the Milwaukee County Zoo
- Karley Dyer ’18 – a marine mammal trainer at the Georgia Aquarium
- Bridget Yurek ’18 – a veterinary technician at the Indianapolis Zoo
Carroll President Cindy Gnadinger spoke at the event and presented the zoo with an official "Proclamation of Recognition and Celebration," officially marking the day as "Milwaukee County Zoo & Carroll Pioneers Partnership Day."
As Carroll University looks ahead, the institution remains committed to offering students transformative learning experiences and strengthening community partnerships that enrich education and support the broader scientific community.
The conclusion of the proclamation states:
We celebrate this milestone with gratitude for the dedicated Zoo staff and volunteers,
the faculty who
have guided this program, notably Dr. Susan Lewis, the many students whose curiosity
and hard work have
enriched both Zoo and campus, and the shared vision that has united our institutions.
Together, we reaffirm
our commitment to nurturing lifelong learning, advancing wildlife research and conservation,
and preparing
future generations of scientists, educators, veterinarians, and global citizens who
will carry forward the
values of discovery, stewardship, service, and compassion for the natural world.
As Carroll University looks ahead, the institution remains committed to offering students transformative learning experiences and strengthening community partnerships that enrich education and support the broader scientific community.
For more information about the biology and animal behavior programs - or anything about Carroll University, visit carrollu.edu.
