Amos Morris appointed as new director of the Milwaukee County Zoo

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Following the retirement of longtime Milwaukee County Zoo Director, Chuck Wikenhauser, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley on Friday, June 25, announced he's appointed Amos Morris as the next leader of the zoo. 

If confirmed, Morris will be the first Black zoo director in the history of the county. 

"After enjoying three decades of the expert leadership of Chuck Wikenhauser, I’m happy to announce a new era for the Milwaukee County Zoo with the appointment of Amos Morris as its new director,” said Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley. “Amos’ thirty-three years of experience in zoo operations, organizational management, and animal management will serve the County Zoo well as we seek to maintain one of the top zoos in the nation for enrichment, education, and entertainment.”

According to a news release from Crowley's office, Morris comes to Milwaukee County after serving for three and a half years as the Deputy Director and Chief Operating Officer for the Fresno Chaffee Zoo.

In the past, Morris served as Director of the Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden, Executive Director of the Evansville Zoological Society in Indiana.

“The County Zoo has never had Black leadership in its 126-year history and in the spirit of the first focus area of our strategic plan, intentional inclusion, we’re proud to continue building a county government that is representative of the diverse array of talent our area has to offer,” continued Crowley. “It is pleasure to welcome Amos back to the Midwest region where he grew up. I hope his appointment will serve as inspiration to young people who’ve never seen someone like them in this important role before.”

In addition to his former roles in Indiana, Morris has held positions at the Pittsburg Zoo & PPG Aquarium, Roger William’s Park Zoo in Rhode Island, and the Dallas Zoo. 

“It is an honor to be appointed as the next Director of the County Zoo and be trusted to take the reins after the retirement of its longest serving director and a zoo profession I deeply respect,” said Amos Morris. “I’m excited to build on the successes of the last three decades and continue to help the Zoo evolve to meet the needs of the animals in our care and the audiences we serve.”

The news release says Morris is expected to begin on Aug. 2. His appointment is pending confirmation from the full Milwaukee County Board in September.