The CEO of the Lincoln Children’s Zoo is stepping down at the end of the year. John Chapo will transition into the role of President Emeritus and will remain at the Zoo for the next two years continuing his resource development, media appearances, and strategic planning to ensure a seamless transition of leadership.
Chapo has has been the CEO at the zoo for the past 35 years. Evan Killeen has been named the new Chief Executive Officer effective January 1. Killeen has been the Chief Operating Officer at the Zoo for the last ten years.
“Evan Killeen is a dreamer and a builder. He will work tirelessly to raise the success of the Zoo even higher. He is a committed, ethical, and dedicated leader who has all the talents and gifts needed to accomplish greatness for our Zoo. He has my complete support along with that of the Zoo Board of Directors and the Zoo’s professional staff.” Chapo says
Over the past decade Killeen spearheaded the $25MM Zoo expansion project bringing giraffes, tigers, spider monkeys, and cheetahs to Lincoln. As CEO, Killeen will oversee the 18-acre facility which has approximately 350,000 visitors annually and is the largest tourist attraction in the city, the second largest in the state, employing 35 full time employees.
“I am honored to continue working alongside such a talented and dedicated team of individuals, and I am humbled by the opportunity to lead our beloved Lincoln Children’s Zoo into the future.” Killeen says.