Philadelphia Eagles Care Summit

President & CEO Philadelphia Zoo | Harnessing the Power of Youth to Engage In Your Mission

Jo-Elle Mogerman is a native Chicagoan who grew up with a love of animals. She applied that love to her academic pursuits, obtaining a B.A. in biology from Macalester College, an M.A. in conservation biology from the University of Minnesota, and a Ph.D. in biology from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She has also held adjunct and full-time status in the City Colleges of Chicago and DePaul University, teaching biology courses in-person and asynchronous on-line.

On October 30, 2023, Jo-Elle became the Philadelphia Zoo's 15th President and Chief Executive Officer. She is the first woman and woman of color to serve in the Zoo's 164-year history. Philadelphia Business Journal has recognized her for her work to date.

Prior to coming to the Philadelphia Zoo, Jo-Elle served as the first African American female zoo director as the Director-Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park. There she led the effort to build from the ground up a new safari experience and animal science and conservation breeding facility. At John G. Shedd Aquarium she oversaw the vision and strategic direction for all learning and community programs. She brings extensive executive experience in informal education and community relations and is well-versed on topics related to the conservation and zoological community through nearly 14 years at Chicago Zoological Society's Brookfield Zoo. Dr. Mogerman currently serves the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) as a board member.  She has served as the Chair of the Wildlife Conservation Committee, Chair of the Diversity Committee and a member of the Ethics Committee. She has served as board chair for the Alliance of the Great Lakes and currently serves on the board of Wild Earth Allies. She has garnered more than 10 awards for the organizations, programs, and projects under her lead.