Topic: The San Diego Zoo: Then and Now

From humble beginnings in 1916, the San Diego Zoo has grown to be more than just a local zoo. With two campuses (the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park) to educate visitors about the diverse plants, animals and ecosystems that make up our natural world, as well as conservation research projects in 70 countries, San Diego’s small city zoo is now San Diego Zoo Global. San Diego Zoo Global is committed to saving species worldwide by uniting our expertise in animal care and conservation science with our dedication to inspiring passion for nature. Together, we will lead the fight against extinction.

About Mark: Mark leads a staff of 65 for San Diego Zoo Global’s Development and Membership Department. In 2017, SDZG raised approximately $127 million in gifts, pledges and membership income. SDZG maintains 500,000 adult members and 130,000 child members—all up for renewal each year. SDZG is in the final year of its first-ever comprehensive campaign ($500 million goal).

Mark served as Associate Dean of Development and Alumni Relations for the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine for five years. During his tenure, the School prepared, launched, and executed a five-year $100 million campaign which was the largest fund-raising effort for any veterinary school at that time. Stuart also wrote and managed a Kresge Foundation proposal that secured a $1.5 million commitment for the campaign. It was one of the Foundation’s largest challenge grants in higher education. At the time of his departure, the campaign had secured $116 million in gifts and pledges.

Mark received a Master of Science in Educational Administration from Western Maryland College (McDaniel College now) and a Bachelor of Arts in English, Political Science and Public Service from Albion College. Mark has served on the faculty of National University’s Sanford Institute of Philanthropy and is a member of the Board of Trustees for McDaniel College. In addition to teaching on fund-raising, he also edited a new textbook on how to be an outstanding fund-raiser, Cause Selling.

DayTimers monthly programs are open to the whole community. Please RSVP below at least one week in advance or to Program Director Ilene Tatro at itatro@cbisd.org, 858 900-2516. Fee: $5 with RSVP, $8 without RSVP.