CEO's You Should Know-Tom Schmid: President/CEO: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Tom Schmid,is the President and CEO of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, including The Wilds, Safari Golf Club, and Zoombezi Bay. Formerly CEO of the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi, Schmid brings over 34 years of experience in modern zoological attractions, working in every aspect of operations, both internally and externally, and in institutions accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).From 2012-2013, he served as chair of the board of directors for AZA after serving on the board. In addition, he is on the executive committee of the Coastal America Learning Center Network and a board member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA.)Schmid grew up in South Florida and received his Bachelor of Science in biology from Stetson University and his Master of Science in Biological Sciences from the University of Central Florida.He began his career at SeaWorld in Orlando, Florida. Before arriving at Texas State Aquarium,

Schmid served as the Director of Operations for NAUTICUS-the National Maritime Center, located in Norfolk, Virginia. He was hired as the Director of Animal Husbandry of Animal at Texas State Aquarium, promoted to Chief Operating Officer in 1998, and then became President and CEO in 1999.Tom and his wife, Kim, have two children: Max and Alexandra.

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