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New Chief Development Officer

Philadelphia Zoo Names New Chief Development Officer

(Philadelphia, PA)- March 1, 2019- Philadelphia Zoo is pleased to announce Neil Batiancila as its new Chief Development Officer. With nearly 20 years of experience as a nonprofit leader specializing in campaign development and execution, community relations and government affairs, he is a great addition to the Zoo’s senior leadership team.
“Neil has been an instrumental player in building the philanthropic landscape of Philadelphia. His excitement for Philadelphia Zoo and our work to share the wonder and beauty of the natural world is what brought us together. As Philadelphia Zoo begins to embark on ambitious initiatives, Neil’s extensive values-driven leadership style, consistent record of fundraising success and continued commitment to the region is essential to our success,” says Philadelphia Zoo CEO, Vikram H. Dewan.

Prior to joining the Zoo, Mr. Batiancila served as Executive Director, Campaign Operations at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Foundation where he led efforts for a multi-year, multi-faceted $1 billion comprehensive campaign, the most ambitious campaign in the Foundation’s history. Prior to that, he served as their Director of Corporate & Foundation Relations where he managed all aspects of their corporate and foundation-giving program. Before joining CHOP Foundation, Neil spent 10 years at City Year, Inc., where he served as Co-Executive Director of the Philadelphia site.

“I am thrilled to join Philadelphia Zoo which is both rich in history and legacy and is one of the most innovative and forward-thinking organizations in the world,” says Batiancila. “I look forward to working with this talented team and community of supporters at an organization that is integral to the fabric of our region. With a true passion for service, I am excited to foster a commitment to philanthropy, wildlife and the community,” says Batiancila.

ABOUT PHILADELPHIA ZOO:
Animals are on the move like never before at Philadelphia Zoo with Zoo360, a first-in-the-world system of see-through trails passing through treetops, crossing over pathways and connecting habitats, giving animals like amazing big cats, majestic primates and marvelous meerkats the opportunities to travel and explore. Visit our new baby western lowland gorillas, baby giraffe, hippos, white rhino, zebras, red pandas, Amur tigers and more at America’s first Zoo. Explore our 42-acre Victorian garden and enjoy award-winning exhibits like KeyBank Big Cat Falls, PECO Primate Reserve, McNeil Avian Center and KidZooU, a wildlife academy that offers dynamic displays, rare breeds and hands-on experiences. Philadelphia Zoo is the second highest ticketed attraction in Philadelphia, one of the region’s foremost conservation organizations and home to nearly 1,300 animals, many rare and endangered. By connecting people with wildlife, Philadelphia Zoo creates joyful discovery and inspires action for animals and habitats. The Zoo welcomed more than 1.25 million visitors last year. Philadelphia Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Philadelphia Zoo is a non-smoking facility. For more information or to purchase and print tickets online, visit us at www.PhiladelphiaZoo.org. Facebook: PhiladelphiaZoo; Instagram: @philadelphiazoo; Twitter: @phillyzoo.