Zoological Society of Pittsburgh

Purpose: Serving as Centers of Community Engagement The Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium has grown dramatically since its privatization in 1994, but its communication methods are not well coordinated. In this project, the zoo will undertake the following activities: (1) partner with MARC USA to develop a zoo brand and a plan to institutionalize it; (2) hire a communications coordinator to develop messages consistent with the zoo's mission and brand and work with all departments to ensure consistency of message; (3) revamp current communications vehicles; (4) create a permanent staff committee to continuously assess the consistency and impact of communications vehicles; (5) develop an interactive Web site that can be managed and updated onsite to educate all constituencies about conservation issues; (6) install interactive kiosks on zoo grounds that reinforce information presented in education programs and on zoo signage; and (7) educate zoo board and staff members, as well as zookeepers and visitor services employees, regarding the zoo brand and mission to ensure consistency in communicating with the public and with community stakeholders and donors.