FARGO, N.D. – The Red River Zoo Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Gene Peacock as the Zoo’s next President and Chief Executive Officer. Peacock will begin his new role at the end of October, following a national search conducted with the support of Canopy Strategic Partners, a consulting firm specializing in the zoo and aquarium sector.

Peacock brings more than 20 years of leadership experience across accredited zoos, museums, and public conservation organizations to the Red River Zoo. He most recently served as Executive Director of Zoo Boise in Idaho, where he led an AZA-accredited zoo welcoming more than 350,000 guests annually, oversaw capital and project budgets exceeding $13 million, and managed a conservation fund supporting projects on six continents. He previously served as Executive Director of the Brandywine Zoo in Wilmington, Delaware, and of the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, where he guided the museum’s recovery following Hurricane Harvey. Peacock is an AZA Professional Fellow and accreditation inspector.

“Gene brings deep experience in zoo leadership along with a genuine enthusiasm for the Red River Zoo and the Fargo-Moorhead community,” said Jay Carney, Board President. “We’re excited to have Gene, with his many years at AZA-accredited institutions, lead the Zoo and our team into its next chapter of growth and development. We’re confident his commitment to our mission will serve the Zoo and our community well for years to come.”

“I am incredibly honored and excited to join the Red River Zoo as the next President and CEO,” said Peacock. “From my first conversations with the Board and staff, it was clear that this is a special organization, providing conservation and educational opportunities while inspiring empathy for the world around us. The passion for the Zoo throughout the Fargo-Moorhead community is inspiring, and I look forward to working alongside the staff, Board, donors, members and community to build on the Zoo’s tremendous foundation.”

Peacock succeeds Sally Mulvena, who served the Zoo for 14 years, including nearly a decade as President and CEO. Under her leadership, the Zoo strengthened its financial stability, expanded its community engagement, and advanced its role in conservation and education.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 2006, the Red River Zoo specializes in the care and conservation of cold-adapted species and welcomes approximately 120,000 guests each year. The Zoo’s mission is to connect the community to nature and inspire people to help save species.

Media Contact: Jay Carney, Board President, 701-356-983, [email protected]