Lisa Marie Avendaño

Lisa Marie Avendaño currently serves as the Deputy Director/Chief Mission Officer at the Houston Zoo, beginning in March 2024. Previously, Lisa held the position of Deputy Director at the Bronx Zoo under the Wildlife Conservation Society from April 2022 to February 2024, where responsibilities included advocating for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts and supporting fundraising initiatives. Lisa's extensive experience at the Houston Zoo spans from 2007 to 2022, including roles such as Vice President of Animal Programs and Senior Director of Animal Operations, with a focus on animal management and program excellence. Earlier career experiences include positions at the Texas Department of State Health Services and as a Veterinary Technician and Zoo Keeper at the Houston Zoo. Academically, Lisa holds a Bachelor's degree in Anthropology from The University of Texas at Austin and two Master's degrees from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, one in Business Administration with a Leadership concentration and another in Cross-cultural Studies, along with certificates in Zoo Keeper Technology and Veterinary Technology from Houston Community College.