Ann Shimerdla, President & CEO

Anne Shimerdla has worked in a Zoo setting for the past 29 years. Over the years, she has gained experience in almost all Zoo departments.

Anne received a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Ecology from Iowa State University and a Masters of Public Administration at Drake University. She started her career at the Blank Park Zoo before moving to Duluth, Minnesota where she was the Education Curator at the Lake Superior Zoo.

For the past 24 years, she has worked at the Blank Park Zoo in various capacities. Starting as the Education Curator, her job has changed and increased scope over the years to include education, volunteers, guest services, operations revenue, animal care & health and human resources. On June 1, 2020, she was named the President and CEO.

Anne lives in Urbandale with her husband of 24 years and their three children. She enjoys volunteering with kids’ sports activities, the school and church.