Amos Morris’ parents earned master’s degrees at a time when that accomplishment was considered exceptional, so he is keenly aware of the powerful influence of “firsts”. In a career spanning more than 30 years across 7 zoos in the United States; Amos became the first Black Zoo Director at an Association of Zoos & Aquarium (AZA)-accredited zoo, the first African-American to be elected to the AZA Board of Directors, and is currently the first Black Zoo Director at the Milwaukee County Zoo. Out of the 240 zoos and aquariums across the country, there are only 3 other Black professionals in a director position. He doesn’t take for granted that a person of color could have their career interests in zoos sparked by seeing a face that looks like theirs.

As a kid who grew up watching TV shows like Wild Kingdom and having pets that ranged from turtles to rabbits, Amos knew he’d have a career working with animals. He pivoted from pursuing a Marine Science degree at Hampton University when the classes conflicted with the football training schedule to graduating with a degree in Animal Science from the University of Missouri. Amos’ career has taken him on ecotourism, conservation, and animal care projects to places like Namibia, Tanzania, Peru, and Greece. An outdoorsy gentleman with a stout presence, sweet smile, and measured tone; Amos sets out every day to be extraordinary for the animals, his staff, and the millions of guests who enter the zoo gates.

Oh, and he has never had a single drop of alcohol in his entire life.

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AMOS MORRIS

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amos-morris-14ab6262

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