Carroll and Milwaukee County Zoo Commemorate 30-Year Partnership

Author: Tim Muma

Published Date: 12/12/2025

Categories: Alumni Animal Behavior Biology University News

Carroll University is proud to celebrate the 30th anniversary of its unique partnership with the Milwaukee County Zoo, a collaboration that has offered generations of students unparalleled opportunities to study animal behavior in a real-world environment.

Launched in 1995, the partnership allows Carroll biology and animal behavior students to conduct semester-long research projects within the zoo’s exhibits. Throughout the experience, the Milwaukee County Zoo provides access to animal habitats, logistical support, project ideas and expert education from staff and volunteers. In return, Carroll students present their research findings at a poster symposium attended by zoo staff, volunteers and visitors. These presentations give the zoo detailed, in-depth analyses of animal behavior – insights that are difficult to replicate in a traditional classroom setting.

Over the last three decades, more than 400 Carroll students have engaged in research through this program. Many alumni have gone on to successful careers in zoos and aquaria across the country. Other alumni have continued conducting wildlife research in graduate school or pursued professional paths in veterinary and human medicine.

Carroll Animal Behavior students present at Milwaukee County Zoo — Current Carroll students present their research at the Milwaukee County Zoo

A few notable alumni include:

Laura Owens ’24 – a wildlife biologist for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Theresa Wawiorka ’19 – a zookeeper at the Milwaukee County Zoo
Dr. Tyler Wittmann ’14 – a medical doctor at Froedtert who conducted research at the Milwaukee County Zoo
Karley Dyer ’18 – a marine mammal trainer at the Georgia Aquarium
Bridget Yurek ’18 – a veterinary technician at the Indianapolis Zoo

“The Milwaukee County Zoo partnership gives our students extraordinary access and real scientific responsibility,” said Dr. Susan Lewis, professor of Biology and Animal Behavior, who started and continues to lead the collaboration. “By observing animals directly and developing original research, they build critical and creative thinking skills, strengthen problem-solving abilities and learn time management in a professional environment. These are experiences that meaningfully shape their futures. When I ask alumni what they value most about their Carroll education, the zoo research experience is one of the most consistent responses.”

Carroll President Cindy Gnadinger holds Zoo proclamation with Carroll and zoo staff — Carroll University President Cindy Gnadinger presented a formal proclamation honoring the partnership

To mark the milestone, Carroll University and the Milwaukee County Zoo held an event at Cafe 1892 on Dec. 11, which included this year’s students presenting their research projects and a reception where guests enjoyed snacks, asked questions and mingled.

Carroll President Cindy Gnadinger spoke at the event and presented the zoo with an official "Proclamation of Recognition and Celebration," officially marking the day as "Milwaukee County Zoo & Carroll Pioneers Partnership Day."

As Carroll University looks ahead, the institution remains committed to offering students transformative learning experiences and strengthening community partnerships that enrich education and support the broader scientific community.

The conclusion of the proclamation states:

We celebrate this milestone with gratitude for the dedicated Zoo staff and volunteers, the faculty who
have guided this program, notably Dr. Susan Lewis, the many students whose curiosity and hard work have
enriched both Zoo and campus, and the shared vision that has united our institutions. Together, we reaffirm
our commitment to nurturing lifelong learning, advancing wildlife research and conservation, and preparing
future generations of scientists, educators, veterinarians, and global citizens who will carry forward the
values of discovery, stewardship, service, and compassion for the natural world.

As Carroll University looks ahead, the institution remains committed to offering students transformative learning experiences and strengthening community partnerships that enrich education and support the broader scientific community.

For more information about the biology and animal behavior programs - or anything about Carroll University, visit carrollu.edu.