ROYAL OAK, Mich., Feb. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- In an effort to strengthen the financial future of The Detroit Zoo, the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) today announced a reorganization of its board, creating an Office of the Chairman to increase board oversight in the finance, communications, and operations. Ruth Roby Glancy, currently Chairman of the DZS Board, will lead this Office as Chairman and CEO as well as the Society's future development and fundraising efforts.

"Given the challenging financial situation in the City of Detroit, which provides critical financial support for the Zoo, we need to develop more expansive sources of funding," Glancy said. "I look forward to working with Ron Kagan, our many talented board members and the staff of the DZS to accomplish this as soon as possible."

The Society's stronger private-sector leadership will enable Dr. Kagan, Director of the Detroit Zoological Institute, to focus on Zoo operations, planning for the future, continuing to provide the best possible zoo for animals and visitors, and to articulate the visions that drive fundraising. Kagan had accepted responsibility for managing the Society in 2001, when its former CEO resigned.

"In this difficult economic environment, I look forward to continuing to work with the Detroit Zoological Society in their fundraising efforts," said Kagan.

During Kagan's tenure and under Glancy's leadership as Chairman, the Zoo has prospered, and the Society has successfully raised millions of dollars for the Detroit Zoological Institute, resulting in the development of new exhibits and resources, including Great Apes of Harambee, the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery, the Van Dusen Endowment Challenge, the National Amphibian Conservation Center, the Arctic Ring of Life, the Animal Healthcare Complex, and the Ford Center for Environmental and Conservation Education.

The Detroit Zoological Society works to promote the general welfare and interests of the Detroit Zoological Institute. Financial support has allowed the Zoo to expand its animal collection, open new exhibits, and implement major beautification projects. The Detroit Zoo is recognized as a leader in animal rescue efforts, and in providing safe havens for exotic animals. The Detroit Zoological Institute, founded in 1928, is committed to celebrating and saving wildlife. For more information, visit http://www.detroitzoo.org/ .

CONTACT: Rana Kozouz of Detroit Zoological Society, +1-248-398-0903,
ext. 3234, rkozouz@detroitzoo.org

Web site: http://www.detroitzoo.org/