Michael Adkesson

Dr. Mike Adkesson is a renowned leader in the care of zoo animals and conservation of wildlife. He is a passionate advocate for the importance of modern zoos and aquariums as a means of inspiring societal compassion and concern for wildlife and nature. With board-certification from the American College of Zoological Medicine and the European College of Zoological Medicine, Dr. Adkesson is one of only a small group of specialists in the veterinary care of zoo animals and wildlife.

Prior to being appointed President & CEO, Dr. Adkesson worked as a clinical veterinarian and later Vice President of Clinical Medicine at Brookfield Zoo. During his tenure, the veterinary department set new standards for the medical care of zoo animals, pushing the boundaries and standards of care for zoo patients. The department launched new initiatives in zoo-focused veterinary radiology, advanced imaging, anesthesia, and conservation medicine. Over the past decade, the zoo’s veterinary education program also became one of the most sought after and premier programs globally.

Since 2007, Mike also led the zoo’s conservation programs in coastal Peru focusing on endangered Humboldt penguins, Peruvian fur seals, South American sea lions, and other marine species in coastal Peru. This passion has resulted in field research, capacity building, and community education programs that are making a positive conservation impact in Peru. As an associate researcher for Cayetano Heredia University in Lima, Peru, he has also mentored numerous students who have gone on to their own careers in conservation.

Dr. Adkesson is a past-president of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians and a professional fellow of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, as well as being actively involved in many other professional organizations. He is an adjunct faculty member with the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine and has trained numerous veterinary and graduate students. As an accomplished researcher and clinician, Dr. Adkesson is also the author of over a hundred peer-reviewed publications and conference proceedings.

Dr. Adkesson received his doctor of veterinary medicine degree with honors from the University of Illinois. Following a clinical internship year in companion animal medicine and surgery, Dr. Adkesson completed three years of residency training in zoological medicine at the University of Missouri and Saint Louis Zoo. In addition to being a board-certified veterinarian, Mike holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Illinois Gies College of Business.