While a student at Iowa State, Anne Shimerdla ('98) interned at the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines. The experience confirmed her career path, and in 2020, she was appointed the zoo’s president and CEO. Caring for more than 2,000 animals, Shimerdla and her team work to “inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research, and recreation.”
How did your experience at Iowa State shape your career path?
Iowa State shaped my career path by providing opportunities to explore. As a freshman, I did not have a clear idea of what I wanted to do, only a lot of interests. I had the opportunity to take classes in education, horticulture, ecology, conservation, and environmental education. Even more impactful were experiences like shadowing in an agriculture high school classroom, traveling to Australia, studying ecology in Belize and Guatemala, and working at the Blank Park Zoo as an intern. Intramurals, St. Thomas Aquinas fellowship, campus jobs, pick-up volleyball games, meeting people from all over, and making new friends (and my husband) rounded out my incredible college years. ISU expanded my vision of the world, encouraged me to persevere when things were tough, and taught me to work hard but play hard, too. My experience was truly an adventure.
How important was your internship in leading you to where you are today?
It’s where I found my passion. Growing up, I always loved animals. My great uncle was a volunteer at Brookfield Zoo near Chicago, and I enjoyed hearing his stories. But I never considered it a career until my internship.
What does a typical day look like for you as the CEO?
Every day presents new challenges and opportunities. It’s everything from working on budgets and planning construction projects to meeting with community partners and giving tours. I am fortunate to work with a group of passionate and talented people. We all have a purpose and desire to make the world a better place for all wildlife. Everything we do moves us closer to save animals from extinction, and that is why this is the best job.
Is there a particular place in the zoo or an animal you like to visit each day?
Walking around the grounds is a therapeutic experience. Each animal is unique and has different behaviors to observe and appreciate, but there are a few that hold a special place in my heart. I never miss a chance to check on Barnaby, an Aldabra tortoise around 100 years old. A favorite activity is feeding the giraffe, and watching people interact with these majestic animals is a joy.
What's on the horizon for Blank Park Zoo?
Since 1966, Blank Park Zoo has welcomed Iowans of all ages to explore the natural world. I’m excited about the next chapter of service to our community. The 20-year master plan is under review, and we are currently fundraising for several projects to improve accessibility, continue animal welfare upgrades, ignite wonder for all Iowans through enhanced education experiences, and expand our conservation practices.
Does Blank Park Zoo have formal partnerships or specific ISU student internship programs currently?
The zoo has several opportunities for students, including an internship program in the animal care field, seasonal staff positions in animal care, education, events and guest operations, and a rotation in the veterinary department for fourth-year veterinary students. In addition, we have worked with individual professors over the years to create specific experiences for students.
What advice would you give to ISU students who are interested in careers at zoos?
Studying is important and necessary, but also work to be a well-rounded individual. Join clubs, volunteer, do an internship, work. These extra experiences often build skills for a successful career. Having a positive attitude and good work ethic and being self-sufficient and reliable are important. The zoo world is a tight-knit community of professionals, and references go a long way toward securing full-time employment. Finally, don’t be afraid to relocate for a position. It most likely will be necessary as you start your career journey.