Denise Verret (center) will serve as the new director of the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens. On June 28, Verret was joined at City Hall by son Brian Verret, husband Anthony Verret, City Clerk Shannon Hoppes and Councilman David Ryu, 4th District. (photo courtesy of the office of Councilman David Ryu, 4th District)

On June 28, the Los Angeles City Council unanimously confirmed Denise Verret to serve as director of the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens. She assumed her new role immediately.

Verret, who served as the L.A. Zoo’s deputy director for 19 years, was nominated to the position by Mayor Eric Garcetti.

“As the Los Angeles Zoo continues to evolve, I’m humbled to be working alongside the best and brightest staff and volunteers as we strive to make the Los Angeles Zoo an institution that thrives and is relevant and meaningful for all people from all backgrounds,” Verret said.

With the council’s vote, Verret became the first African-American woman to lead an institution that has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and Councilman David Ryu, 4th District, said it was a “historic day for our zoo and for our city.”

“There’s no one more qualified to be zoo director, and I am confident that her vision, drive and knowledge on animal welfare and conservation will transform our L.A. Zoo into a national model for zoos in the 21st century,” Ryu said.

For information, visit lazoo.org.