Do you know an outstanding youth who is an advocate for wildlife and conservation? Nominate him or her for the Young Conservationist Award.

Young Conservationist Award

As part of the celebration of Zootopia, Zoo New England’s annual fundraising gala, the zoo staff is excited to announce that applications are now being accepted for the Young Conservationist Award. The nominated youth should be enrolled in grades 3 through 12, have demonstrated a positive commitment to conservation at large and/or Zoo New England’s mission, and have engaged in some outstanding action to support this. The award, which includes a $2,500 scholarship, will be presented at Zootopia on May 9, 2020 to further the recipient's project, conservation work and education. The winner and two adults will receive complimentary tickets to Zootopia to participate in the awards ceremony. This year’s presentation marks the eighth award presented to an exceptional youth committed to conservation.

“We are truly inspired by the amazing stories of how the zoos and animals influence and empower people, particularly kids, to make a difference in their community,” said John Linehan, President and CEO of Zoo New England. “Our past award winners have been remarkable young people with a passion for wildlife and conservation. We’re looking forward to once again presenting this award to an outstanding youth, who continues to make a difference on behalf of wildlife, conservation and the environment.”

In 2019, ZNE was honored to present the award to Izzy Primeau, a senior at Perkins School for the Blind, who has served as an educational interpreter for zoo guests at various exhibits and further shared her research and related school-work with classmates to inspire them about wildlife and conservation. Award recipients in previous years include students who have raised funds for elephant conservation, and conducted field work to study local river herring populations.

Nominations for the Young Conservationist Award are being accepted through Friday, March 13, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. Nomination forms are available here. Please email questions to YoungConservationistAward@zoonewengland.org.

About Zootopia

Zootopia is a fundraising gala event that will “bring the Zoo” to the Royal Sonesta Boston for an unforgettable evening. The event, which will be held May 9 from 6:00 – 11:00 p.m., begins with a cocktail reception and auction followed by a spectacular dinner and dancing. Attendees are encouraged to wear animal-inspired attire.

Proceeds from Zootopia will directly benefit Zoo New England’s Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo and will help to further the Zoos’ mission to inspire and educate the next generation of conservation stewards and leaders

To purchase tickets or to learn about sponsorship opportunities click here or call 617-379-5190.