Partners in Conservation
Learn about the Zoo’s financial commitment to holistic conservation efforts in Central Africa.

The RISE scholarship program, generously provided by Battelle, provides internship experiences, with focuses from business to biology, for students interested in potential careers in animal care, guest services and other mission-driven careers. The purpose of this scholarship program is to provide opportunities for students from all communities, especially those who have dreamed of pursuing careers in animal care, guest services, or mission-driven fields but may have faced barriers.
We aim to remove these obstacles and offer the resources needed for some of our brightest stars to succeed! Internships are awarded on an equal-opportunity basis, welcoming students of all races, genders, colors, religions, national origins, and those from low-income or socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
$5,000 scholarships will be awarded to selected students.
Respect. By respecting one another’s differences, we can recruit and retain talent from diverse backgrounds and provide a more fulfilling experience for our guests.
Include. Promoting inclusion in the workplace promotes a sense of belonging and an enriched employment and thus visitors/patrons experience.
Succeed. Ensuring representation and promoting equity and inclusion ensures that everyone is welcome and encouraged to be their true self at work. When employees are engaged, the individual and the organization succeeds.
Educate. Representation, Equity, Accessibility, and Belonging is a continuous journey and lifelong education. Through open conversations, collaboration and experiences, we demonstrate personal and professional growth.
Applications will be submitted to our Human Resources team and reviewed through an established rubric.
You'll commit to 20 hours a week at the Zoo for 12-16 weeks during the season. Scholarship winners that work in these dedicated intern positions receive a $5,000 scholarship to offset pay and transportation during their internship.
FINAL PAPER
Following the completion of their internship, each student will commit to writing and submitting an essay detailing their personal work experiences, their project work, career insights and any suggestions for making the internship a more valuable experience. This will be submitted to the Zoo's Human Resources team as well as their department supervisor.
Meet some former recipients of the RISE scholarship and hear about their journeys into pursuing careers in Zoology and Communications!
Available internship opportunities vary throughout the year, but can include:
QUESTIONS?