Education
- MS, Comparative Nutrition, California Polytechnic University
- BS, Animal Science, University of Vermont
Experience
Laura was the Nutrition Manager at Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago for three years. She worked closely with the Department of Veterinary Services as well as Zoological Managers, Curators, and Keepers to manage animal diets. She also managed the Nutrition Center, which included overseeing daily operations at the semi-centralized commissary and monitoring satellite kitchens throughout the park. She implemented a barcode inventory system for items ranging from frozen blueberries to shovels, and managed the Nutrition Center budget. Laura was part of a team that made weekly mock-AZA accreditation inspections throughout the park.
Prior to entering graduate school, Laura gained animal keeper experience at White Oak Conservation Center and the Bronx Zoo (Wildlife Conservation Society). She studied in Namibia where she stayed at Save the Rhino Trust base camp. Currently a full-time mom, Laura remains active on the Steering Committee of the AZA Nutrition Advisory Group.
