
AMLAZ Program
Advancing Minority Leadership in Aquariums and Zoos




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360° feedback reviews
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one-on-one leadership coaching
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management skills accelerator course
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group learning sessions
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industry networking
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completion of a project
This 8-month, high-impact program accelerates the growth of BIPOC, mid-level leaders through:
MIAZS is pleased to partner with Leadby with generous sponsorship from Canopy Strategic Partners to present AMLAZ, a professional development opportunity for MIAZS Members who manage or lead at least one direct report at their institution.
AMLAZ takes place February through September and requires a commitment of roughly 8-10 hours a month from participants, who are expected to actively practice and apply their new knowledge and skills in their day-to-day responsibilities of managing and leading others.
Applications for AMLAZ open every fall in September/October. Applicants must have support of their direct supervisor, who must also complete a short questionnaire in order for the applicant to be considered.
Some sponsored spots may be available for applicants in need. The cost of participating in AMLAZ is $3,500. Institutions are encouraged to invest in their leaders' development by covering the cost of AMLAZ.
AMLAZ 2026
COHORT

Carter Carter
Director of Grounds
WOODLAND PARK ZOO

Greer Darden
Terrestrial Husbandry Supervisor,
CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER
Sponsored by MIAZS

Cherie Dumas Nobles
Research Program Manager,
AUDUBON NATURE INSTITUTE
Sponsored by Canopy Strategic Partners

Dr. Gregory Scott
Sr. Associate Veterinarian &
Clinical Residency Coordinator,
GEORGIA AQUARIUM
Sponsored by Canopy Strategic Partners

Erica Polanco
Zoological Animal Manager II,
FRESNO CHAFEE ZOO
Sponsored by TKM Foundation (SSA)

Leia Simelton
Manager of Learning,
BIRMINGHAM ZOO
Sponsored by TKM Foundation (SSA)

Noel Fong
Animal Care Department Curator,
AQUARIUM OF THE BAY
Sponsored by Private Donation

Staci Wong
Interpretation Manager,
AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC

Yasmine Gaudin
Assistant Supervisor of Day Camps & Family Programs,
PHOENIX ZOO
Sponsored by Canopy Strategic Partners
Application details for AMLAZ 2027
will be available in fall 2026.













