Oglebay Good Zoo Names Amy Rutherford Vice President and Zoo Director
WHEELING, W.Va. — Oglebay Good Zoo has announced the appointment of Amy Rutherford as the Vice President and Director of the zoo, bringing more than 15 years of leadership experience in zoological education, conservation engagement, and organizational development to the role. Rutherford joins Oglebay Good Zoo following leadership positions with several nationally recognized zoological organizations, including the Audubon Nature Institute in New Orleans, the Birmingham Zoo, and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). Most recently, she served as Vice President for Learning & Engagement and Managing Director of the Audubon Louisiana Nature Center at Audubon Nature Institute. In this role she oversaw guest engagement, education programs, ambassador animals, and volunteers across the Audubon Zoo and Audubon Aquarium & Insectarium and led overall operations and strategy for the Nature Center. “We are thrilled to welcome Amy Rutherford to the Oglebay team,” said Bob Peckenpaugh, President and CEO of the Wheeling Park Commission. “Amy brings an outstanding combination of leadership, conservation expertise, and guest engagement experience to the Good Zoo. Her passion for wildlife education and community connection aligns perfectly with our mission, and we are confident she will continue building on the Zoo’s momentum and impact.” Rutherford began her zoo career as an education specialist at the Smithsonian National Zoo before spending a decade with AZA leading education and professional development programs for zoos and aquariums across North America and globally. During her tenure, she helped launch AZA’s Executive Leadership Development Program and contributed to major field-wide initiatives, including the Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) program and updating diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion policies and practices. A native of Canton, Ohio, Rutherford also has deep family ties to West Virginia and says Oglebay Park Resort has long held a special place in her professional journey. “In my role at AZA leading the professional development program, I came to Oglebay once or twice a year for courses over my decade of work there,” Rutherford said. “Oglebay holds an important place of shared history and experience for the zoo and aquarium community, and it’s a privilege to help shape the Good Zoo’s future.” Rutherford said one of her top priorities will be supporting the continued evolution of the Good Zoo, including the development of the new Gary E. West Pridelands habitat and lodging experience. “It is an honor to step into the Zoo Director role at Oglebay Good Zoo, and I am thrilled for the opportunity,” Rutherford said. “We have a strong and dedicated team already making an impact for wildlife locally and globally. I look forward to continuing to grow the zoo’s role as a destination for conservation, education, and memorable family experiences.” Under Rutherford's leadership, Oglebay Good Zoo will continue inspiring meaningful connections between people, wildlife, and the natural world while serving as a cornerstone of the Oglebay experience. For more information about Oglebay Good Zoo, visit oglebay.com/good-zoo or follow Oglebay Good Zoo on social media. Read the full article
