Zoo Leadership

Executive Director

Phillip Ginter

The Executive Director is responsible for making the highest level decisions across the zoo, both internal and external. He fosters relationships between the community, legislative and government bodies, other zoos and conservation groups, and many more! The Executive Director reports to a number of official committees and the Board, and strives to put Ross Park Zoo on a path where it can best help the animals it cares for and the people it inspires!

Mr. Ginter has served as the zoo's Executive Director since 2019. He was born right in Broome County, graduating from Binghamton High School and earning his Master's from Marywood University. Prior to his work with Ross Park, Mr. Ginter spent over 20 years in the non-profit sector, including serving on the boards and committees of various councils. Throughout his professional career, Mr. Ginter has worked to improve the lives of people across the Southern Tier and strengthen the community. Mr. Ginter is looking forward to his current service on the NYCON Board of Directors and to the opportunity to help advance important issues affecting the nonprofit sector on a statewide level.

Director of Operations/Animal Care

Christina Sheehan

The Animal Care Department at Ross Park Zoo consists of a small team of people who put the needs of the animals above all else. The zookeepers at Ross Park Zoo are a dedicated group of educated individuals who are well-versed in animal care, including enrichment, positive reinforcement training, and daily husbandry for the animals. They are here to give the animals all the care they need 365 days a year, in all weather conditions. Our keepers are always excited to talk about animals, so feel free to ask them any questions you may have! 

Animal Care

Sara Welge

Sara is responsible for ensuring the welfare of the animals here at Ross Park; this includes (but is definitely not limited to) feeding, watering, cleaning, conducting health checks, and documenting abnormalities. Sara's knowledge and expertise ensures the varied and intensive animal needs at the zoo are always met.

Visitor Experience

Chris Cowden

Chris is the Visitor Experience manager, responsible for overseeing all operations and staff related to guest services. He manages and helps to run admissions, concessions, our gift shop, and special events.

Education

Cai Caccavari

Cai combines an expertise in education and a conservation-focused mindset to lead nature-based learning initiatives and advance the zoo's strategic vision of fostering an inclusive community. They implement educational programs that inspire empathy, collaboration, and action on behalf of wildlife and their habitats.

Office

Debbie Jones

Debbie provides critical support to the team and offers guidance to ensure the financial viability of the organization. She is responsible for overseeing the timely processing and reporting of all financial activities.

Facilities

Edward Garbaty

Edward is the Facilities manager, responsible for ensuring a safe, clean, and professional environment for staff, animals, and the public. He oversees and assists with building maintenance, custodial services, exhibit construction, groundskeeping, security, and snow removal.

Board of Directors