The Smithsonian Institution Executive and Leadership Team

David Erickson, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at The Smithsonian Institution, architects the overarching strategy and vision for the organization's zoological facility. Erickson directs all operations, ensuring alignment with the core mission of wildlife conservation and scientific research. This leadership role involves guiding the institution's approach to preserving endangered species and preventing extinction, a critical mandate established from its inception. Erickson oversees the integration of scientific advancements into animal care, breeding programs, and species management, maintaining a commitment to evidence-based practices. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer drives the institution's market impact by fostering collaborations and ensuring the facility remains a leading center for understanding animal behavior, genetics, and ecological needs. David Erickson's strategic direction ensures the continued success of conservation initiatives and public education programs.

Ronald Cortez, the Chief Financial Officer, Undersecretary of Finance & Administration at The Smithsonian Institution, manages the institution's financial health and administrative functions, crucial for sustaining its wildlife conservation and scientific research operations. Cortez oversees all financial planning, budgeting, and resource allocation, ensuring that funds are directed effectively towards preserving endangered species and preventing extinction. This role is fundamental to maintaining the organization's commitment to scientific rigor and evidence-based practices by providing the necessary financial support for research and conservation initiatives. The Chief Financial Officer, Undersecretary of Finance & Administration ensures fiscal responsibility across all aspects of animal care, breeding programs, and species management. Ronald Cortez's financial acumen supports the institution's long-term sustainability and its capacity to conduct vital field studies and collaborative conservation projects. This leadership ensures the financial stability required for the institution's ongoing mission.

Meroe Park, the Deputy Secretary & Chief Operating Officer at The Smithsonian Institution, directs the comprehensive operational framework that supports the organization's extensive conservation and research activities. Park oversees the day-to-day management of all institutional operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in advancing the mission of preserving endangered species and preventing extinction. This leadership role is pivotal in integrating scientific advancements and evidence-based practices across all departments, from animal care to field studies. The Deputy Secretary & Chief Operating Officer ensures that resources are optimally allocated to support breeding programs, species management, and the overall stewardship of wildlife. Meroe Park's operational expertise guarantees that the institution's commitment to scientific rigor is consistently upheld, facilitating groundbreaking research and robust conservation initiatives. This executive drives the seamless execution of institutional strategy, reinforcing the Smithsonian's role as a global leader in zoology and conservation.

Cissel Gott, the Smithsonian Women's Committee President 2016-2018 at The Smithsonian Institution, led initiatives focused on supporting the institution's mission of wildlife conservation and scientific research during a specific period. Gott's leadership during this tenure involved mobilizing resources and advocating for programs dedicated to preserving endangered species and preventing extinction. This role emphasized community engagement and fundraising to bolster the institution's evidence-based conservation efforts. The Smithsonian Women's Committee President 2016-2018 worked to enhance public understanding and support for scientific rigor in animal care, breeding programs, and species management. Cissel Gott's contributions during this presidency were vital in fostering a supportive environment for the institution's ongoing work in wildlife stewardship and scientific inquiry. This past leadership highlights a commitment to advancing the organization's conservation objectives.

Ray Seward, the Chief Information Officer at The Smithsonian Institution, directs the technological infrastructure supporting the organization's conservation and research endeavors. Seward oversees the management and enhancement of all information systems, ensuring data integrity and accessibility for scientific analysis and operational efficiency. This role is crucial for maintaining the institution's commitment to scientific rigor and evidence-based practices, facilitating the collection and analysis of data related to wildlife conservation. The Chief Information Officer ensures that technological solutions effectively support breeding programs, species management, and field studies aimed at protecting vulnerable populations. Seward's leadership ensures the seamless integration of advanced technologies into the daily operations of the zoological facility, thereby supporting the overarching mission of preserving endangered species. Ray Seward's focus on robust IT systems underpins the institution's ability to conduct cutting-edge research and maintain comprehensive collections.

Marlene Howze, the Chief Technology Officer at The Smithsonian Institution, spearheads the development and implementation of innovative technological solutions to advance wildlife conservation and scientific research. Howze drives the integration of new technologies into animal care, breeding programs, and species management, ensuring the institution remains at the forefront of zoological science. This leadership position is vital for enhancing the facility's capacity to conduct field studies and collaborative conservation initiatives. The Chief Technology Officer focuses on leveraging technology to deepen the understanding of animal behavior, genetics, and ecological needs, aligning with the organization's evidence-based approach. Marlene Howze's expertise ensures that the institution's technological capabilities effectively support the mission of preserving endangered species and preventing extinction. By championing technological advancements, Howze directly contributes to the institution's role as a major center for wildlife stewardship and research.

Janet Abrams, the Director, Strategic Initiatives & Chief Information Officer, Office of at The Smithsonian Institution, orchestrates key strategic projects and oversees critical information technology functions. Abrams drives the planning and execution of initiatives that enhance the institution's conservation efforts and scientific research capabilities. This dual role ensures that strategic planning is informed by robust technological infrastructure and data management. The Director, Strategic Initiatives & Chief Information Officer, Office of focuses on aligning technological resources with the organization's mission to preserve endangered species and prevent extinction. Abrams' leadership is instrumental in developing forward-thinking strategies that support advancements in animal care, breeding programs, and species management. Janet Abrams' comprehensive oversight contributes significantly to the institution's operational effectiveness and its standing as a leader in wildlife conservation and scientific inquiry.

Vandyke George, the Acting Chief Information Officer at The Smithsonian Institution, provides interim leadership for the organization's information technology operations. George ensures the continuity and stability of critical IT systems that support wildlife conservation and scientific research. This role is essential for maintaining the integrity of data related to endangered species and ecological studies. The Acting Chief Information Officer focuses on managing existing technological resources and addressing immediate information system needs to uphold the institution's commitment to evidence-based practices. Vandyke George's efforts support the ongoing operations of breeding programs and species management, ensuring that conservation initiatives proceed without interruption. This leadership ensures that the institution's technological backbone remains reliable, facilitating its mission to preserve vulnerable animal populations.

Porter Wilkinson, the Counselor and Chief of Staff To the Regents at The Smithsonian Institution, provides critical advisory support and manages key operational functions for the Board of Regents. Wilkinson ensures that the strategic direction of the institution aligns with the directives and oversight provided by the Regents, particularly concerning wildlife conservation and scientific research. This role involves facilitating communication and coordination between the leadership team and the governing body, ensuring adherence to the mission of preserving endangered species. The Counselor and Chief of Staff To the Regents plays a vital part in operationalizing the board's vision for scientific rigor and evidence-based practices within the zoological facility. Porter Wilkinson's influence extends to guiding initiatives that support animal care, breeding programs, and species management, thereby reinforcing the institution's conservation goals. This leadership ensures effective governance and strategic alignment for the organization.