Checkpoint Zoo
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24 | 6PM
$5 GENERAL ADMISSION | STUDENTS FREE WITH ID
Topic: Zoos in Crisis and Conservation Collaboration
This powerful documentary chronicles the rescue of thousands of animals during the early days of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Following the screening, our discussion with Rolling Hills Zoo shares more about how AZA-accredited zoos—including Kansas AZA Zoos (KaZOOs)—collaborate during emergencies and global crises, and the role zoos play in conservation, preparedness, and international partnerships.
Ryan VanZant is the Executive Director of Rolling Hills Zoo, where he leads the zoo’s mission to inspire wildlife conservation, enrich education, and support exceptional animal care. Prior to joining Rolling Hills Zoo, Ryan served as Director of the Hutchinson Zoo, where he advanced organizational culture, completed key capital projects, and achieved Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) reaccreditation. He also has experience as Director of Education at the Sutton Avian Research Center and has worked with animal training programs, including Natural Encounters, Inc. for Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Ryan holds a Master of Arts in Museum Studies with a focus on leadership and management of natural history museums from the University of Oklahoma.