Our Mission

MISSION: Cultivating connections between people and nature that inspire action for our planet.
VISION: To be the regional leader in conservation and sustainability with a global impact.

Our Mission & Strategic Plan

A team of dedicated staff members began this strategic planning effort, in partnership with Canopy Strategic Partners, in 2022 and concluded in 2023. Undergoing strategic planning at this moment in time was no easy lift, and the accomplishment of this work is a testament to the Zoo team’s tenacity and will. It demonstrates the determination necessary to continue to trail blaze as we have from our very beginning.

This plan reaffirms our mission, vision, and core values, centering us as a team and giving our community a clearer picture of who we are as an organization. It plots a course for us over the next five years, continuing to pursue more “firsts” as we approach our 100th birthday in 2028. It’s an ambitious plan, pulling us forward into new territory while nurturing our team, animals, plants, and resources along the way. Together we can continue to innovate, be the first, be bold — this is just the first step.

DOWNLOAD OUR STRATEGIC PLAN
A close-up of a lemur with striking yellow eyes, holding a leafy branch, next to a textured surface, possibly a part of its enclosure.

Friendly • Knowledgeable • Dedicated • Compassionate

  • Two people shaking hands

    A team of 47 full- & 60 part-time staff.

  • A stylized graphic of a blue paw print with five rounded shapes representing toes and a larger shape as the palm.

    Home to 140 species.

  • Pixelated red map location marker icon

    Stewarding 45 acres.

  • A simple orange icon of a person with a smaller person or child in front of them.

    Welcomed 205,000+ guests in 2022.

  • A small brown flag on a pole against a white background.

    Founded in 1928.

  • Purple heart-shaped handshake icon

    Beloved by 185 volunteers.

Key Commitments

  • VALUE OUR TEAM

    Foster a culture of teamwork, appreciation, safety, and recognition; develop the next generation of zoo professionals; value and leverage diverse experience and perspective.

  • LEAD IN CONSERVATION

    Actively engage in conservation regionally and globally; develop a trusted reputation for wildlife, sustainability, and conservation expertise; convene others in pursuit of conservation goals.

  • EXPAND OUR REACH

    Attract new audiences, develop new partnerships, and invest in experiences that inspire return visitation.

  • MASTER BEST PRACTICES

    Provide best-in-class animal care, education, and guest experience; attain AZA accreditation.

  • BUILD COMMUNITY

    Cultivate a sense of ownership of MPZ; contribute to pride of place and quality of life for Evansville and the region; be a place where guests from all backgrounds feel welcome.