2017—2018 REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY

Preserving quality cultural institutions for the St. Louis region today and for future generations THANK YOU TO THE ST. LOUIS CITY AND COUNTY residents who have provided tax support to the Metropolitan Zoological Park and Museum District (ZMD) for more than 45 years. The ZMD is the oldest and largest cultural–institution taxing district in the United States. The ZMD is also considered a national Best Practice and, we often receive inquiries as to how it was established.

In 1971, City and County voters created the ZMD to support study estimated that the ZMD and its five institutions’ operating three financially struggling cultural institutions: the Museum and capital improvement spending, along with related out-of- of Science and Natural History (now known as the Saint Louis town visitor spending, had a regional economic impact of $589.4 Science Center), the Saint Louis Zoo, and the Saint Louis Art million in 2017. During the same calendar year, the ZMD and Museum. During its first year of operation, the ZMD recognized its affiliated institutions generated 4,845 jobs in the St. Louis net tax revenue totaling slightly more than $3.89 million. region. As major employers that attract many tourists to the In many ways, today’s ZMD is radically different than the metropolitan area, the ZMD and its five related institutions are fledgling organization created in 1971. One significant difference clearly substantial contributors to the region’s economy. is that the ZMD now includes five institutions. City and County It is difficult to list each of the organizational and opera- voters allowed the Missouri Botanical Garden and Missouri His- tional changes that have occurred within the ZMD over the tory Museum to join the ZMD in 1983 and 1987, respectively. past 45-plus years. Although the most notable transformations The ZMD has also recognized a material increase in annual net have occurred within the cultural institutions, the ZMD central tax revenue. In 2017, for example, net tax revenue totaled nearly office itself has also experienced change. Since 2011, the ZMD $80.06 million. The increased tax support, coupled with gener- Board expanded its oversight role by appointing an independent ous donations and internally generated revenue, have allowed accounting firm to conduct agreed-upon procedures engage- each of the ZMD cultural institutions to become nationally ments at the institutions. The selected procedures were both recognized. financial and operational in nature. The engagements’ results In 2017, more than 6 million individuals visited the five ZMD provided both the ZMD and institutional governing boards institutions to view exhibits that included The Discovery of King with the assurance that institutions met high operating stan- Tut at the Science Center, #1 in Civil Rights: The African-Ameri- dards or, if necessary, served as an indicator that improvement can Freedom Struggle in St. Louis at the Missouri History Museum, was required. The ZMD Board recently engaged an independent Degas, Impressionism, and the Paris Millinery Trade at the Art firm to conduct an information technology assessment at the Museum, Garden of Glass at the Missouri Botanical Garden, and ZMD office and each of the five institutions. The purpose of the Wild Lights at the Saint Louis Zoo. These 6 million visitors prove assessment is to determine that each entity is managing and pro- that the ZMD’s cultural institutions impact the quality of life for tecting information appropriately. Since the resulting assessment residents of the St. Louis metropolitan area. We hope that you report will likely include sensitive information that is proprietary will read this report for uplifting stories on the many successes in nature, the sole recipient of an entity’s report will be its gov- and accomplishments of these cultural assets. erning board. The concept of “quality of life” can be defined as the stan- Our job, as a ZMD staff and board, is to safeguard the St. dard of the health, comfort, and happiness experienced by an Louis City and County taxpayers’ investment for future genera- individual or group. Although this concept is defined in terms tions. We are confident that with the continued dedication and of health and happiness rather than wealth, economic “health” foresight of ZMD Board members, coupled with the commit- can be a significant element in measuring quality of life. This ment and enthusiasm of the cultural institutions’ management past year, the ZMD Board requested that the St. Louis Regional and governing boards, the ZMD and its cultural institutions will Chamber conduct a ZMD-wide economic impact study. The continue to thrive for generations to come.

Christine A. Chadwick J. Patrick Dougherty ZMD Board Chairman Executive Director

REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY 1 OUR VISION

The task of the Zoo Museum District is to lead, plan, and collaborate in strengthening the Subdistricts to ensure quality institu- tions that educate, enhance, and benefit the residents of the St. Louis region.

OUR MISSION

The Mission of the Zoo Museum District is to represent the taxpayers of the District in the careful oversight of the financial affairs of the Subdistricts: Missouri Botanical Garden, Missouri History Museum, Saint Louis Art Museum, Saint Louis Science Center, and Saint Louis Zoo.

2 REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY 3 $589.4 million The total regional economic impact of the Zoo Museum District and its five cultural institutions' 2017 operations, average construction, and capital improvement spending along with out- of-town visitors' expenditures totaled $589.4 million.

$80,060,184 4,845 jobs The Zoo Museum District and its five institutions’ 2017 operations, average construction, and capital improve- ment spending along with out-of-town visitors’ expenditures impacted the 6,187,002 region’s employment by generating 5% 4,845 jobs. INDIVIDUALS SERVED IN 2017 Revenue collection percentage that legislation allows for ZMD administrative 3,117,113 1,106,644 1,037,216 509,220 416,809 purposes 2017 Attendance 50.4% 17.9% 16.8% 8.2% 6.7% ZOO SCIENCE BOTANICAL ART HISTORY 2017 Zoo Museum District Net Tax Revenue

Saint Louis Art Museum $21,681,920 27.1% Saint Louis Zoo $21,681,920 27.1% 0.8% Percentage of the 2017 1971 1972 1983 1987 2017 Saint Louis Science Center $10,896,904 13.6% tax revenue collections City and County voters approve The ZMD begins Voters add the Missouri Botanical Voters add the Taxpayer investment in Missouri Botanical Garden $10,896,904 13.6% used for ZMD adminis- the formation of the ZMD to operations. Garden to the ZMD and increase Missouri History the cultural institutions Missouri History Museum $10,896,904 13.6% trative purposes support the Saint Louis Zoo, Art tax rates for the Zoo, Art Museum, Museum to approaches $1.8 billion. ZMD Administration $4,005,632 5.0% Museum, and Science Center. and Science Center. the ZMD.

ST. LOUIS 2017 TAX RATE PER MAXIMUM A NOTE ABOUT ZMD ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS LATEST FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CULTURAL $100 OF ASSESSED AUTHORIZED Tax Rates INSTITUTION VALUATION TAX RATE Section 184.356 of the Missouri Revised Statutes allows the ZMD to retain See the ZMD website (www.mzdstl.org) to view the recent annual financial 5 percent of a year’s tax collections for its administration. In 2016, adminis- statements of the Zoo Museum District and the related cultural institu- Rates levied by the Zoo Saint Louis Art Museum 7.68 cents 8.00 cents trative expenses totaled $534,055 or 0.73% of the year’s tax receipts. The tions. The Zoo Museum District has been audited annually since operations Museum District and the Saint Louis Zoo 7.68 cents 8.00 cents ZMD Board distributes “excess administrative fees” to the cultural institu- commenced. maximum authorized Saint Louis Science Center 3.86 cents 4.00 cents tions proportionately on the basis of the tax rates levied during the year in rate for each institution: Missouri Botanical Garden 3.86 cents 4.00 cents which the excess fees originated. The 2016 excess administrative fees of TAX SUPPORT’S IMPACT ON INSTITUTIONAL OPERATIONS Missouri History Museum 3.86 cents 4.00 cents $3,325,899 were distributed in 2017: The Zoo and Art Museum each received Tax receipts from the residents of St. Louis City and County materially $950,176.80 and the Science Center, Botanical Garden, and History Museum affect operations at the five cultural institutions. Recent years’ tax support received $475,181.80 each. represented at least 34% of each institution’s net operating revenue.

4 REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY 5 from A+ debt rating to AA-. These ratings The activities of the Saint Louis Art Museum maintain the Museum’s credit position among in 2017 were highlighted by strong atten- the top art museums in the country. As of dance, an exhibition schedule featuring a December 31, 2017, the market value of the popular range of art, significant new acquisi- Museum’s endowment was $216.6 million. tions, and programming impacting the citizens The Museum’s 2018 exhibition sched- of our region. ule included the North American premiere The Museum welcomed 509,220 visi- of Sunken Cities: Egypt’s Lost Worlds, the tors, an increase over the Museum’s 2016 most significant exhibition of ancient Egyp- attendance. Three major exhibitions brought tian art undertaken in St. Louis in more than visitors to experience art from around the THE world: Degas, Impressionism, and the Paris Milli- nery Trade; Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear, 1715-2015; and Thomas Struth: Nature & Politics. gallery tours, and special performances, wel- THE MUSEUM Degas, Impressionism, and the Paris Milli- comed more than 9,600 visitors in 2017. Youth WELCOMED SAINT LOUIS nery Trade, organized by the Saint Louis Art “The Museum’s ongoing smART offered 1,100 youth from community Museum and the Fine Arts Museums of San investment in learning groups and summer camps the opportunity Francisco, was a groundbreaking exhibition and engagement provides to explore the Museum’s collection through 509,220 featuring 60 Impressionist paintings and pas- a variety of creative and interactive activities VISITORS, AN INCREASE tels, including key works by Degas, many never support for family, school, facilitated by the Museum’s paid Teen Assis- OVER THE MUSEUM’S ART before exhibited in the United States, as well and community programs tants. The Museum’s public programming 2016 ATTENDANCE. as works by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edouard inspired by the Museum’s celebrating Kwanzaa, the legacy of Dr. Martin THE MUSEUM Manet, Mary Cassatt, Henri de Toulouse-Lau- Luther King, Jr., and Women’s History Month ACQUIRED trec, and 40 exquisite examples of period collection.” served some 2,400 visitors. MUSEUM hats. This exhibition was the first to examine In alignment with the 2016 adoption of a the height of the millinery trade in Paris and the subsequent Syrian war and refugee crisis. museum-wide digital strategy, the Museum 304 WORKS OF ART. received significant coverage in the media. The Museum was fortunate to receive a continued the implementation of the content THE POPULAR Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear, 1715– transformative gift from New Jersey-based and data management systems and continued ART IN BLOOM 2015, organized by the Los Angeles County collector Ronald Maurice Ollie and his wife, to work toward completing a campus-wide WEEKEND FESTIVAL Museum of Art, explored the history of men’s Monique McRipley Ollie, that adds significant Wi-Fi initiative. ATTRACTED fashionable dress from the 18th century to depth and breadth to the Museum’s holdings of The Museum commissioned a capi- MORE THAN the present and reexamined the equation of works by African-American artists. The gift of tal renewal and replacement study in 2014 “fashion” with “femininity.” The exhibition 81 pieces—including paintings, drawings, prints, to ensure that the facility functions at levels traced cultural influences on men’s fashion photographs, and sculptures—is named in honor commensurate with the Museum’s priorities 22,000 over three centuries. of Ronald Ollie’s parents, Thelma and Bert Ollie, and mission. Pursuant to that plan, 2017 saw VISITORS. Thomas Struth: Nature & Politics, co- who were frequent visitors to the Museum and the rebuilding, replacement, or improvement organized by the Museum Folkwang, Essen; instilled in their son a deep appreciation of art. of key mechanical systems. Martin-Gropius-Bau, Berlin; and the High The popular Art in Bloom weekend festi- The Museum continues to maintain 50 years. Featuring colossal sculptures and Museum of Art, Atlanta, in collaboration val attracted more than 22,000 visitors—an a strong financial position. In May 2017, precious artifacts from the long-lost cities of with the Saint Louis Art Museum, featured increase of more than 1,700 visitors from Moody’s upgraded the Museum’s bond rating Thonis-Heracleion and Canopus, Sunken Cities more than 30 works by one of today’s most 2016. In its eighth season, the Art Hill Film to Aa2 from Aa3, and, as reported last year, tells the story of one of the greatest finds in renowned photographers, celebrating his Series complemented the fashion-themed Standard & Poor’s upgraded the institution the history of underwater archaeology. The large-scale color photography. Nature & Reigning Men by featuring four films honored Museum is also presenting the main exhibi- Politics focused on technology and the man- for stunning costume design. SLAM Under- tion Graphic Revolution: American Prints 1960 ufactured landscape drawn from his travels in ground, the Museum’s monthly art and music to Now, which will celebrate more than five Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and America. event for young adults, grew to 12,000 par- decades of acquisitions of works on paper by The Museum acquired 304 works of art in ticipants, and the third annual, family-oriented prominent American artists. Free exhibitions 2017, illustrating a commitment to thought- Winter Celebrations weekend was attended throughout the year highlighted new works ful and strategic collecting. The Museum by some 5,300 visitors. by contemporary artists, including Sun Xun purchased Portrait of Charlotte Cram, an The Museum’s ongoing investment in and Kehinde Wiley, who recently was com- exceptional portrait from America’s Gilded learning and engagement provides support missioned to paint former President Barack Age by John Singer Sargent. The acquisition for family, school, and community programs Obama’s portrait. fills a critical gap in the American art collec- inspired by the Museum’s collection. Popu- The Museum is gratified to know that so tion. The purchase of Mattia Preti’s Christ lar programs and educational offerings such many people value its contributions to the and the Woman Taken in Adultery fulfills the as Family Sundays, Youth smART, and Art region. Through the generous support of the Museum’s search for a dynamic and dramatic with Us are offered for free or at low cost at taxpayers of St. Louis City and County, it will Baroque painting. Another purchase—Epi- the Museum or throughout the region. The continue to advance the civic and cultural life graph, Damascus by Ethiopian-American artist weekly Family Sundays programs, which pro- of St. Louis. Julie Mehretu—references the Arab Spring and vide free art-making activities, family-friendly REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY 7 During the restoration of the build- A 2017 visitor survey for the Missouri Botanical ing, workers discovered hidden murals that Garden returned extremely positive feed- likely date back to the late 19th century. The back, highlighting the Garden’s strengths of building opened in spring 2018 and will be attracting diverse crowds of new and repeat used for special exhibits and events. Another visitors and scoring it far above similar attrac- treasure for visitors to enjoy, the Museum tions across the country. Building will be open to the public, with full The beauty of the Garden and its relax- accessibility. ing, inspiring atmosphere were among the The Garden continues to work toward top reasons that visitors ranked their expe- the 2020 goal of establishing the most riences so highly. Positive reviews also comprehensive baseline of knowledge of THE mentioned the good value of the Garden the world’s plant diversity ever assembled: and that there is always something new to the World Flora Online. The Garden and its see. The survey calculated a net promoter 40-plus institutional partners around the score (a tool used to gauge customer loy- world unveiled the new World Flora Online MISSOURI alty) of 89 for the Garden. Nationally, portal as part of the 2017 International botanical gardens averaged a score of 50. Botanical Congress address given by the One new exhibit for the summer of 2017 Garden’s president. It already includes infor- was Garden of Glass, which featured the art service in the community gardens in the MORE THAN mation on more than 350,000 plant species of Craig Mitchell Smith. More than 82,000 Baden neighborhoods. Community members and 1.3 million plant names. BOTANICAL guests visited during the summer months to continue to care for the gardens there with Among the Garden’s additional sci- see the glass orchids, orange blossoms, dan- assistance from Garden staff. The Garden’s 150,000 entific achievements in 2017–18 was the delions, and other sculptures in the tropical Therapeutic Horticulture team is specially GARDEN GLOW TICKETS rediscovery of Dracaena umbraculifera, for- setting of the Climatron. trained and equipped to work with spe- SOLD IN 2017 merly thought to be extinct in the wild. GARDEN The Garden’s events remain a top cial-needs audiences. Staff members bring DNA testing at the Garden indicated that reason to visit. Garden Glow, Chinese Cul- plant-based sensory experiences to living D. umbraculifera is more closely related to ture Days, Best of Missouri Market, and the centers, patients in hospitals, children with specimens from Madagascar than from Mau- Japanese Festival were named as the most different abilities, and community places of ritius, where it was originally thought to appealing. support and care. come from. Armed with that information, Garden Glow, which runs during the hol- Another draw ranked highly among 45,000 scientists conducted field expeditions in iday season, celebrated its fifth year in 2017 guests is the uniqueness and variety of HOUSEHOLD Madagascar, ultimately discovering five wild and saw its largest crowd to date, with more plants at the Garden. One of the more nota- MEMBERSHIPS populations of the plant. The discovery high- than 150,000 tickets sold. ble of those plants is the Amorphophallus lights the importance of the Garden’s living Other signature events at the Garden titanium, commonly known as the corpse collection, including even those specimens include the annual Orchid Show, featuring flower, recognized for its infamous aroma. that are centuries old and might lack infor- 800 winter-blooming orchids; Grapes in the The corpse flower bloomed for the eighth mation about origin. The genetic analysis of Garden, where visitors can sample more than time in five years in 2017, bringing more MORE THAN these plants can play an important role in 100 international and domestic wines; the than 2,100 people out after-hours to see and making new discoveries. Whitaker Music Festival, a Wednesday-evening smell the rare flower. In May 2017, a Garden botanist also dis- outdoor concert series held in the summer; The year 2018 provided even more for 17,000 covered a 256-year-old coloring book in the SPECIES and the Green Living Festival, which cele- Garden visitors, including another unique Peter H. Raven Library. Robert Sayer’s The REPRESENTED brates sustainable living. summer display, Flora Borealis, a nighttime Florist was first published as a coloring book The Garden offers a wide variety of multimedia experience. The exhibit creates a in 1760, with distinct instructions on how to classes and other activities throughout the path of destinations with lighting and inter- color the pages. It is considered to be one year. The Garden’s service to the commu- active projections highlighting the Garden’s of the world’s oldest coloring books, and the nity also involves leading efforts to monitor iconic locations as galleries. discovery received national attention. and control invasive species in the region. One of the Garden’s more popular The Garden plays a vital role in the lives Garden educators have continued their events, the Best of Missouri Market, offered of people at home and across the world. For expanded hours this year, opening at noon 158 years, it has provided not just a peace- on Friday, October 5. ful sanctuary for St Louisans but also robust “The beauty of the Another exciting development at the scientific, horticultural, and educational pro- Garden and its relaxing, Garden in 2018 was the reopening of the gramming for the region. It is proud to be Stephen and Peter Sachs Museum, which is a global leader in plant science, conserva- inspiring atmosphere more than 150 years old and was shuttered tion, and sustainability, helping to secure were among the top for many years. Dr. Peter Wyse Jackson the future for the next generation, and it is reasons that visitors called for the restoration of the build- honored to host more than 1 million visitors ing shortly after becoming president of the each year. ranked their experiences Garden in 2010. so highly.” REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY 9 Founded in 1866, the Missouri Historical THE K–12 PRO- Society operates the Missouri History GRAMS SERVED A Museum and the Library and Research RECORD-BREAKING Center. Since 1988, the Missouri Historical Society has been in a year-to-year contract with the Missouri History Museum Subdistrict 48,000 STUDENTS. to operate the Museum and the Library and Research Center. During 2017, the Missouri History Museum and Library and Research Center DURING 2017, THE MISSOURI welcomed more than 416,800 visitors. This THE HISTORY MUSEUM AND LIBRARY marked the fourth consecutive year with an AND RESEARCH CENTER annual attendance exceeding 400,000. The WELCOMED MORE THAN Missouri History Museum continues to be MISSOURI one of the most visited history museums in the nation. The Missouri History Museum prides itself on serving lifelong learners. Youth and Family 416,800 VISITORS. Programs served more than 33,000 people in HISTORY 2017, including families and preschools with children as young as 2 years of age participat- ing in such programs as Storytelling, Parent & Me, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts Days. Multi- MUSEUM generational families also attended such The American Alliance of Museums chose the Missouri In January 2018, the Missouri Historical community events as the annual Dr. Martin History Museum as the first museum in the country Society unveiled an extensive rebranding of Luther King Jr. Family Celebration, Dia de los the institution. The new brand more accurately Muertos, and many more. to be recognized as an organization with the Award reflects the institution’s innovative and inclu- The Museum’s K–12 programs—includ- for Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion. sive approach to history. ing group visits, educator programs, and November 3, 2018, will mark the reopen- Homeschool Days—served a record-break- ing of Soldiers Memorial Military Museum. In ing 48,500 people during 2017. More than The Museum’s 1,000-square-foot Bank of Television Arts & Sciences for the documen- 2015, the Missouri Historical Society entered 18,000 individuals participated in the Muse- America Atrium was the site of two gallery tary Show Me 66: Main Street Through Missouri, into an agreement with the City of St. Louis um’s adult-learning programs, such as group installations during 2017: Capturing the City Paraquad’s Shine the Light Award for the to renovate and operate Soldiers Memorial, tours, genealogy and house history work- and World War I: Missouri and the Great War. institution’s work in accessibility, and an which includes the Court of Honor. The $30 shops, and Discovery bus tours. During 2017, the Missouri Historical Soci- American Association for State and Local His- million renovation, which started in 2016, is With three special exhibitions opening, ety Press published two award-winning books: tory Award of Merit for Teens Make History, a being funded entirely by private donors to on the heels of the popular special exhibi- Standing Up for Civil Rights in St. Louis, written paid apprenticeship program that introduces the Missouri Historical Society. The renovated tion Route 66: Main Street Through St. Louis, for upper-elementary students, and Captured the museum field to local teens. Soldiers Memorial will be LEED-certified and the Missouri History Museum continued its and Exposed: The First Police Rogues’ Gallery The year 2018 promises to be another ADA-compliant, and it will feature two sig- increased focus on regional history and on in America, the institution’s first foray into successful year. Muny Memories: 100 Seasons nature galleries, special exhibition space, an creating innovative exhibitions in-house that e-books. Onstage shines a spotlight on the nation’s auditorium, meeting rooms, and outdoor pro- feature the Society’s extensive collections. St. Louis welcomed more than 5,000 largest and oldest outdoor theater. gramming space. During its yearlong run, Route 66: Main museum professionals for the Annual Meet- Street Through St. Louis welcomed 375,842 ing and MuseumExpo of the American Alliance visitors. of Museums in May 2017. The Missouri His- During 2017, the special exhibitions tory Museum received the inaugural Diversity, #1 in Civil Rights: The African-American Free- Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion Award for dom Struggle in St. Louis (opened March 11) its work with diverse audiences. In presenting YOUTH AND and Panoramas of the City (opened Septem- the award, AAM president Laura Lott stated, FAMILY PROGRAMS ber 2) welcomed nearly 200,000 visitors “AAM is proud to celebrate the leadership, SERVED MORE THAN and 66,000, respectively. creativity, and inspirational work of the Mis- The Museum also continued to have the souri History Museum…” privilege of hosting the country’s very best The Missouri Historical Society received 30,000 traveling exhibitions. Organized by the Min- several additional distinguished awards, PEOPLE. nesota History Center, TOYS of the ’50s, including a Will Rogers Medallion Award ’60s, and ’70s closed its three-month run at for the MHS Press book It Ends Here by Joe the Missouri History Museum on January 22, Johnston, an Emmy from the Mid-Amer- 2017, with an attendance of nearly 76,460. ica chapter of the National Academy of REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY 11 The year 2017 was a tremendous time for the program that uses an inquiry-based learning Saint Louis Science Center, with the high- environment focusing on science, technology, est attendance since 2010. The organization engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to pre- served 1,106,644 people through on-site pare high school students from underserved attendance and off-site programs and activi- and underrepresented communities for gradu- ties. With 1,008,470 of those people coming ation, college, and future careers. Exposing the on-site during regular hours, the door count participants in the YES program to hands-on attendance for 2017 was the fourth highest investigations allows teens to learn the aca- since 2005. Guest satisfaction continues to be demic, personal, and social skills required in extremely high, with 95 percent of guest com- higher education and professional careers. THE ment cards having a positive rating. Crucial to provides a unique opportunity to see the com- In September 2017, the Science Center this accomplishment was the support of 566 mand module Columbia, on tour for the first time 1,106,644 was selected to participate in the Ameri- volunteers who contributed 22,659 hours in in 46 years, before it returns to the National can Alliance of Museums’ (AAM) Museum PEOPLE SERVED 2017, an increase of 6 percent. Air and Space Museum. Through original Apollo IN 2017 Assessment Program (MAP) for Community SAINT LOUIS A major initiative of 2017 was the launch of 11-flown objects, models, videos, and interac- Engagement. Participation in this program a new strategic plan with the vision of becom- tives, visitors can learn about the historic journey 566 helps the Science Center forge closer con- ing the regional leader in connecting people of the Apollo 11 crew, including Neil Armstrong, VOLUNTEERS IN 2017 nections with our community and work with science. The plan has four areas of focus: Michael Collins, and Buzz Aldrin. The traveling WORKED A COMBINED toward meeting the highest professional stan- understanding and engaging our audience; pro- exhibition has been greatly enhanced with St. dards in the museum field. Our participation SCIENCE viding a unique science learning experience; Louis’ aerospace and aviation history through coincides with the Science Center’s Commu- building talent and organizational effectiveness; augmented entry and exit experiences devel- 22,659 nity Engagement Initiative and has provided and sustaining financial strength. The strategic oped by the Saint Louis Science Center team. HOURS. structure and support to gather and analyze plan of the Saint Louis Science Center pro- The GROW exhibit, which opened in 2016, information needed to launch the initiative. CENTER vides guide rails to continue to strengthen the continues to tell the story of the science of The Science Center continues its role as community’s connection to science and STEM food—including plant and soil science, farm weekend expos that introduce visitors to local one of seven U.S. science museums leading the education while further solidifying our institu- technology, and animal biology. GROW fea- scientists, engineers, and other experts for a effort to develop a shared system for collect- tional strength. tures regular presentations by local experts from behind-the-scenes look at real science. ing data about visitors. Funded through a grant In May 2017, the Science Center opened such partners as Gateway Greening, Washington The Science Center continues to offer from the Institute for Museum and Library The Discovery of King Tut. The special exhibition University, and Saint Louis University, as well as educational programming tailored to kids of Services, the Collaboration for Ongoing Vis- offered breathtaking recreations of more than regional agricultural experts. GROW hosts agri- all ages. For early childhood, there’s Science itor Experience Studies (COVES) is designed 1,000 priceless artifacts and enabled guests to culture-related events throughout the year, as Storytime, in partnership with Ready Readers, to systematically collect, analyze, and report experience the most remarkable archaeological well as Science at Sunset, the organization’s con- and the Preschool Science Series (a three-part on visitor experience data. By facilitating col- discovery of the 20th century. The Discovery of tribution to free summer evening entertainment series involving interactive stories and hands-on laboration, developing common instruments, King Tut exceeded expectations for attendance in the community, which launched in 2017. exploration to teach about science, language, and providing training, COVES enables science and revenue. More than 106,000 visitors walked The GROW Pavilion, designed by Gyo problem-solving, and social skills). Each gallery centers to become collaborative, data-driven in the footsteps of archaeologist Howard Carter Obata (architect of the iconic James S. McDon- offers programming for general visitors, orga- organizations that are focused on their audi- and experienced the tomb of King Tut ankha- nell Planetarium) has garnered several awards, nized youth groups (scouts), and schools. ences. In 2016–2017, the project moved out of mun and all of its treasures as they were at the including the American Institute of Architects Field trip packages are offered each semes- its pilot phase, and there are now 20 participat- moment of discovery. Distinguished Award, the Illuminating Engi- ter and focus on a variety of content areas, ing institutions actively collecting visitor data Over the summer of 2017, as excitement neering Society Section Award, the Building such as weather, electricity, agriculture, plan- that will inform both those individual institu- about the Great American Eclipse grew in St. St. Louis Award, and the Regional Excellence etary science, life sciences, engineering, and tions and the science museum field as a whole. Louis and throughout the country, the Sci- Award for Wood Design. technology. Programming usually includes We look forward to the coming year and ence Center became the regional authority At the James S. McDonnell Planetarium, an OMNIMAX® film or special exhibit and a continuing to inspire the next generation of sci- on the eclipse. The entire organization came the new VR Transporter ride takes visitors into hands-on program. entists, engineers, problem solvers, and leaders. together to create significant anticipation, space with state-of-the-art motion-based vir- Youth Exploring Science (YES) is the sig- which resulted in increased memberships, sold- tual reality. This new permanent installation nature youth development program of the out events, and multiple sell-outs of Science pitches, elevates, and rolls in synchronization Saint Louis Science Center. YES is a four-year Center eclipse glasses. with videos of space from the International Named a Smithsonian Affiliate in 2016, the Space Station. The Prehistoric Undersea Saint Louis Science Center opened the Smithso- Adventure looks back in time to amazing “Visitors find a different nian Institution traveling exhibition Destination marine life of the distant past. Moon: The Apollo 11 Mission in April 2018. The Free and public programming at the Science experience in every season, Science Center was one of four museums Center continues to welcome new audiences. showing up to watch nationwide—and the only museum in the Mid- First Friday, the Science Center’s premier as tomato seedlings go west—selected to host Destination Moon during adult-centric program, continues to grow as its two-year tour across the nation leading up to participants explore the intersection between in the ground or pole the 50th anniversary of the mission. Destination science and science fiction. Other community beans are harvested.” Moon commemorates the first lunar landing and outreach programs include SciFest, our series of REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY 13 The Saint Louis Zoo is dedicated to provid- ing the highest standard of care for animals and has distinguished itself as a leader in wildlife conservation, both locally and in MORE THAN hotspots around the globe. It was voted America’s Top Free Attrac- tion (2016) and Best Zoo (2017, 2018) by 2,000 VOLUNTEERS CONTRIBUTED USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards MORE THAN contest. “These honors were made possible by the THE strong support of the taxpayers of St. Louis 100,000 City and St. Louis County and our generous HOURS IN 2017. donors, members, volunteers and employ- ees,” says Jeffrey P. Bonner, Ph.D., Dana SAINT LOUIS Brown President and CEO. “They make the Saint Louis Zoo great. This is a win for the entire St. Louis region and its residents and born on May 17 at River’s Edge. Moyo is the “The Zoo’s education programs help visitors feel civic leaders who have long supported and second black rhino to be born at the Zoo in appreciated St. Louis’ world-class free zoo.” 26 years and only the tenth in Zoo history. more connected to nature and motivated to ZOO The Zoo’s popularity also is reflected in The black rhinoceros is a critically endan- take action to preserve the natural world.” its attendance figures. Approximately 3.1 mil- gered species. Eight cheetah cubs—three lion visitors came to the Zoo in 2017 from all males and five females—were born to one over the nation and world, making it one of mother cheetah on November 26 at the to Missouri, where it had disappeared by the continues as the Zoo focuses on providing the most visited zoos in the U.S. Zoo’s River’s Edge Cheetah Breeding Center. 1970s. In June 2017, 426 Zoo-bred beetles the best possible care for its 16,000 animals, On September 15, 2017, Centene Griz- In more than 430 litters documented by the were reintroduced on the Wah’ Kon-Tah Prai- representing 600 species. zly Ridge opened to the public, marking the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), rie in St. Clair and Cedar counties on land The Zoo’s education programs help vis- complete reconstruction of the Zoo’s his- this is the first time that a female cheetah jointly owned and managed by the Missouri itors feel more connected to nature and toric 1920s bear grottos. Visitors can watch has produced and reared on her own a litter Department of Conservation and The Nature motivated to take action to preserve the Huckleberry and Finley, two orphaned wild of eight cubs at a zoo. The average litter size Conservancy. The Zoo was recognized with natural world. In 2017, the Zoo reached grizzly bears from Montana, through gigantic is three to four cubs. Cheetahs are a threat- AZA’s 2017 North American Conservation approximately 1.7 million people through vis- viewing windows at Grizzly Ridge. “In addi- ened species in the wild. Award for the Zoo’s significant achievement itor experiences and through 4,570 formal tion to an improved habitat for the bears, The Saint Louis Zoo continues its conser- with the American Burying Beetle Recovery education programs. On average, 100,000 Grizzly Ridge offers a strong educational vation efforts to save wild things and places. Program. visitors each year are school-age chil- experience for visitors,” says Dr. Bonner. In October 2017, the Zoo had a part in help- At the Zoo, plenty of conservation work dren and their teachers, which account for Grizzly bears are listed as a threatened spe- ing reintroduce 1,775 Partula snails back to 1,500 school field trip visits. The Zoo is for- cies primarily due to human development their native habitat in Tahiti. The Zoo has been tunate to have experienced staff and highly and conflict. At Grizzly Ridge, keepers, inter- involved with the raising of Partula snails since trained volunteers to offer many educational preters, and docents let visitors know that the 1980s. As with many animals listed as crit- opportunities. More than 2,000 volunteers humans and bears can live safely together. ically endangered, the Partula snail is part of a contributed over 100,000 hours to the Zoo In June 2015, the 40,000-square-foot Species Survival Plan. This was the third year APPROXIMATELY and educational programs in 2017. McDonnell Polar Bear Point opened and the Zoo has contributed to reintroducing Par- “In 2018 and beyond, we will continue brought visitors up close to the male polar tula snails into the wild but the first time a Zoo our discussions with community leaders bear, Kali. The exhibit offers new insights into staff member assisted with the reintroduction 3,100,000 throughout the region to create a sustain- the lives of polar bears and the Arctic people in the field. In southwest Missouri, American VISITORS IN 2017 able plan for responsible long-term care of who rely on them. burying beetle reintroduction continues to be our beloved Zoo,” says Dr. Bonner. “With “This wonderful habitat shows our com- successful. The American burying beetle is the this support, the Zoo can continue for the mitment to protecting polar bears, which first endangered species to be reintroduced next 100 years to provide superior care to are declining in the wild and highly vulnera- animals here and around the world and offer ble,” says Dr. Bonner. “By working not only a world-class experience to generations to conserve polar bears in the wild but also of residents across the region. We’d like to to offer a wonderful habitat for breeding 1,116 thank the taxpayers of St. Louis City and St. and caring for bears, we can help save these Louis County and to the Zoo Museum Dis- BIRTHS AT THE ZOO iconic animals.” trict commission for all they do to make our IN 2017 Among the 1,116 births at the Zoo in 2017, Zoo a great place and for keeping it accessi- two very significant and high-profile births ble and forever free.” took place. A black rhinoceros calf named Moyo, which means “heart” in Swahili, was

REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY 15 BOARD MEMBERS 1972—2018

CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS PAST BOARD MEMBERS Georgia P. Rankin STAFF SUBDISTRICT BOARDS OF COMMISSIONERS Paul K. Richey Christine A. Chadwick Mary Elliott Brandin * Kenneth J. Rothman J. Patrick Dougherty Section 184.358 of the Missouri Revised Statutes states that each Subdistrict established by voters will be governed by a ten-member Commission. Five Chair Harry T. Bussmann III Joan W. Ruesing Executive Director Commissioners are appointed by the Mayor of the City of St. Louis and five Commissioners are appointed by the St. Louis County Executive. Each Subdis- Jacqueline L. Butler Armentha M. Russell trict Commission will also include four nonvoting Advisory Members. Two Advisory Members are appointed by the City Mayor and two Advisory Members Michelle Harris Barbara C. Claggett Homer E. Sayad * Jina Choi are appointed by the St. Louis County Executive. Each ZMD affiliated cultural institution has established supplemental nonprofit organizations that support Vice Chair George K. Conant Jr. Gerard J. Schmidt Deputy Executive Director and promote the cultural institution’s activities and mission. Members of the five Subdistrict Commissions include: Thelma V. Cook * Vincent C. Schoemehl Robert E. Eggmann Gerald P. Deppe Alice Scott LaQuana S. Dilworth Treasurer Judge Jimmie M. Edwards Hugh Scott III Office Manager Jennifer H. Fisher Bishop Richard F. Stika Darnetta Clinkscale Frankie Muse Freeman* Sheldon H. Stock * Secretary Jerome E. Glick Donald J. Stohr * Anne P. Gorham Leon Strauss * Thomas C. Mummert Clarence T. Hunter John H. Thomas Assistant Secretary Roy W. Jordan * Richard E. Thomas Perry Joseph Ruth M. Trusheim * Pat Coleman Donna G. Knight Ben Uchitelle ART MUSEUM BOTANICAL GARDEN MISSOURI SCIENCE CENTER ZOOLOGICAL PARK Board Member Gerhardt Kramer * Charles E. Valier SUBDISTRICT BOARD SUBDISTRICT BOARD HISTORY MUSEUM SUBDISTRICT BOARD SUBDISTRICT BOARD Hal A. Kroeger Jr. Floyd C. Warmann OF COMMISSIONERS OF COMMISSIONERS SUBDISTRICT BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS OF COMMISSIONERS Thomas J. Campbell Betty J. Lee David S. Weber OF COMMISSIONERS Immediate Past Chair Robert G. Lowery Sr. * Joan J. Weber John R. Musgrave, Brian A. Murphy, Juan Ferreira, Winthrop B. Reed, III, Joyce L. Margulis Gary C. Werths President Chair Frank Hamsher, Chairman Chair Kay A. Marshall * Gloria Wessels Gary Wolff, Yemi Susan Chairman Eugene M. Toombs, Cynthia J. Brinkley, Adrienne B. Morgan Pat Whitaker Vice President Akande-Bartsch, Ph.D., Valerie Bell, Vice Chairman Vice Chair Robert A. Powell Adrienne D. Davis, Vice Chair Vice Chairman Joshua Randall, Lawrence E. Thomas, Francis A. Rankin *Deceased Secretary Marjorie M. Weir, Laura Cohen, Secretary Secretary Treasurer W. Randolph Baker, Treasurer Judy M. Abrams, Timothy Eberlein, M. D., Robert R. Hermann, Jr. Treasurer Adrian E. Bracy, Treasurer Treasurer Karl A. Grice Jeffrey T. Fort Secretary Joan Briccetti Thomas F. George, Ph. D. Jerald L. Kent, Kent Q. Kreh John C. McPheeters Jeremy Colbert Daniel G. Korte Immediate Past Chair Joseph D. Lehrer Marcia B. Mellitz Simone Cummings Shelley K. Lavender Chonda Nwamu Judith Weiss Levy Lydia Padilla Constance Gully William C. Rusnack Robert F. O’Loughlin Charles A. Lowenhaupt Pamela Shephard Austin Tao Frank Thurman Steven C. Roberts Anabeth C. Weil Francis Yueh Cynthia Crim Donna Wilkinson Will R. Ross, M.D., MPH Thomas S. Carnahan Hillary B. Zimmerman Joan Cronin Neal F. Perryman John R. Fox James F. Hoffmeister Judge Thomas Grady Peggy Ritter Barbara W. Roberts Naretha A. Hopson James G. Sansone Donald M. Suggs Janice M. Nelson Carol A. Wilson James H. Yemm

16 REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY Metropolitan Zoological Park and Museum District 7733 Forsyth Blvd. Suite 550 St. Louis, MO 63105

314.862.4222 www.mzdstl.org