Rich Block

Rich Block is the current CEO and President of the Santa Barbara Zoo. Rich has dedicated their career to zoology and animal welfare, with a specific focus on education and awareness.

Block began their career in 1986 as Education Curator at Zoo Atlanta. In this role, they were responsible for directing and developing the Zoo's zoomobile, tours, interpretive presentations, graphics, and curriculum packages. Rich then served as Director of Public Programs at the World Wildlife Fund from 1987 to 1992. In this role, they served as zoo and aquarium liaison and coordinated programs with zoos, aquariums, and their support organizations. Rich also launched several innovative education programs, including Vanishing Rain Forest and Windows on the Wild.

From 1992 to 1993, Block served as Executive Director of Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International. In this role, they were responsible for all aspects of the organization's operations. From 1995 to 1998, they served as Vice President for Scientific & Program Development at the Indianapolis Zoo. In this role, they were responsible for all education activities related to the collection and formal programming. Rich also tracked and coordinated activities related to research using the animal and plant collections. Rich co-hosted a local Emmy Award-winning weekly television program called At the Zoo, which was produced by WRTV6 Indianapolis (ABC affiliate).

Block has been with the Santa Barbara Zoo since 1998 and assumed their current role as CEO & President in 2005. Under their leadership, the Santa Barbara Zoo has become one of the leading zoos in the country. Rich has expanded the zoo's education programs and developed new initiatives

Rich Block received their Master's of Science from The University of Michigan School of Natural Resources in Natural Resources- Communications. Rich received their BS from Principia College in Environmental Studies. Rich also attended Principa Upper School.

Some direct reports include Kimberly Kirkhart - Director, Membership, Estelle Sandhaus - Director, Conservation & Science, and Ross Reed Beardsley - Director, Retail Operations.