Board retreat sparks new capital campaign and a historic gift for endangered tigers
This September Zoo Miami hosted a special retreat for its Board of Directors, and the results are nothing short of transformational. Guided by thoughtful discussions and a deep sense of mission, the retreat set the stage for a brighter future for the zoo, wildlife conservation, and the Miami community.
A historic step forward for Zoo Miami
According to Ana VeigaMilton, who has long been a champion of education and conservation in Miami, the retreat was “wonderful” and full of momentum. The board formally sanctioned looking into launching a capital campaign, something the zoo has not done in at least 20 years. This bold step signals a renewed commitment to growth, conservation, and elevating Zoo Miami’s role as a world-class destination for families and wildlife lovers.
Capital campaigns are more than just fundraising—they’re a way to dream bigger, invest in infrastructure, and build projects that can inspire generations. For Zoo Miami, this could mean transformative exhibits, stronger educational programming, and even greater contributions to protecting endangered species worldwide.
A gift for tigers and the planet
Perhaps the most inspiring moment of the retreat came when Ana VeigaMilton announced that she and her husband, Cecil, would commit $2 million to the creation of a new Sumatran Tiger habitat. Designed as a “nose to whiskers” immersive experience, the exhibit will not only give visitors an up-close look at one of nature’s most majestic creatures but also support tiger conservation efforts in the wild.
Sumatran tigers are critically endangered, with fewer than 400 believed to remain in their natural habitat. As VeigaMilton explained, “When you work towards helping a species survive, you’re really working to make sure their habitats in the wild—the environment—is clean and healthy, which is good for all of us.”
In a touching tribute, Zoo Miami’s own Ron Magill created a beautiful collage to mark the occasion, and the animal keepers arranged something unforgettable: a piece of art made by a tiger itself. With paint on their paws, the animals stepped across canvas, leaving behind colorful imprints—a creative reminder of the unique bond between humans and wildlife.
Moments like these remind us that Miami isn’t just a city of culture and nightlife—it’s also a place where community leaders are making lasting commitments to conservation and the environment. The Zoo Miami Board retreat may have been just a weekend, but the impact of the decisions and announcements will echo for decades to come.
Zoo Miami’s retreat reflects more than just a weekend of planning; it represents a renewed vision for conservation, education, and community engagement in Miami. From the launch of a long-awaited capital campaign to a transformational gift for tiger conservation, these efforts will shape the future of the zoo and inspire generations of visitors.
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