Executive Team

Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s management team — together with the Board of Trustees — is responsible for guiding the institution toward its strategic goals. Our leaders are deeply committed to our mission of inspiring conservation leadership by connecting people and communities with wildlife and nature. Through this commitment, they are driving meaningful impact across the region, the nation, and the world.

Executive Leadership

  • Headshot of Brookfield Zoo Chicago President & CEO, Dr. Michael Adkesson

    Dr. Michael J. Adkesson

    President & CEO

  • Andrea Rodgers smiles in front of a blooming tree.

    Andrea Rodgers

    Chief Operating Officer

  • Kate Brueggmann, Senior Vice President, Development, Brookfield Zoo Chicago

    Kate Brueggemann

    Senior Vice President, Development

  • Jennifer Baader, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Brookfield Zoo Chicago

    Jennifer Baader

    Senior Vice President, Government Affairs

  • Headshot of Dr. Sathya Chinnadurai, Senior Vice President, Animal Health, Welfare & Science, Brookfield Zoo Chicago

    Dr. Sathya Chinnadurai

    Senior Vice President, Animal Health, Welfare & Science

  • Headshot of Dr. Rita Stacey Vondra, Senior Vice President, Programs & Impact, Brookfield Zoo Chicago

    Dr. Rita Stacey Vondra

    Senior Vice President, Programs & Impact

  • Headshot of Nichole Gladney, Senior Vice President, People & Culture, Brookfield Zoo Chicago

    Nichole Gladney

    Senior Vice President, People & Culture

  • Headshot of Gladys Lopez, Senior Director, President’s Office & Board Relations, Brookfield Zoo Chicago

    Gladys Lopez

    Senior Director, President’s Office & Board Relations