GLAZA helps raise funds for the zoo’s conservation programs and
activities. (photo courtesy of the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association)

The Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association, a nonprofit that pro­vides financial support for animal welfare, species conservation, cap­ital projects, learning and engage­ment and community outreach pro­grams for the Los Angeles Zoo, has appointed seven new trustees to its board for the 2020-21 fiscal year.

The group of new trustees demonstrates GLAZA’s commit­ment to creating a board that reflects the diverse community it serves. The new trustees are all Los Angeles-based professionals with a diverse set of experiences, exper­tise, perspectives and cultural backgrounds.

“Our long-term commitment to diversity and inclusion starts with our board, as we continue our work to make sure it represents the range of talent, ideas, identities and cul­tures that make up Los Angeles,” GLAZA President Tom Jacobson said. “With more women, people of color, and LGBTQA+ representa­tion than at any time in GLAZA’s history, these new trustees also bring unique perspectives from a range of industries that are vitally important to the economy and cul­tural landscape of Los Angeles – from entertainment and sports to public advocacy.”

The current board includes 41 members. As part of the nominat­ing process, each candidate meets with the board’s affairs committee, as well as Jacobson and CEO and Zoo Director Denise Verret.

“One of our main objectives this past year was to grow the board, not only in number but in commu­nity representation, so we are excit­ed to have made good progress towards this goal while working within the constraints placed on us during the pandemic,” GLAZA board of trustees chair Beth Price said. “This new group brings a deep appreciation for the zoo and its commitment to education, enrichment and conservation, and are eager to serve and further its mission.”

The new trustees are Courtney Appell, COO at the Artemis Agency; Vivian Chow, managing director of banking in private wealth management at U.S. Bank; Alfred Fraijo Jr., a partner at Sheppard Mullin LLP; Patricia McKenna, principal and portfolio manager with Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management; Naomi Rodriguez , vice president of exter­nal affairs and community relations for the Los Angeles Dodgers; Osborne “Oz” Scott, an award-winning television, theater and motion picture director; and Matt Wilson, investment analyst and director at Capital Group.

For information about GLAZA, visit lazoo.org.