The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is pleased to welcome Rebecca McReynolds as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). McReynolds joined the OKC Zoo executive leadership team in September and will oversee funding for upcoming expansion and remodeling projects as the Zoo continues to focus on creating a world-class destination for animal lovers and conservationists.
McReynolds comes to the OKC Zoo from Amerita, Inc. where she worked as regional finance director for the specialty medical infusion company. A graduate of Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, she brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to her new role.
“So much credit goes to outgoing CFO Bob Mathew, who helped the Zoo navigate leaner times and created a strong foundation for future growth,” McReynolds said. “His work here casts a long shadow, but I am eager to take up the mantle and keep the Zoo on the right track so we can educate and inspire more guests for generations to come.”
A native Oklahoman, McReynolds said some of her fondest memories growing up included coming to the Zoo with her parents and grandparents—a tradition she continues to this day by bringing her own children to the Zoo.
“Every step of my career has taught me something new. While the Zoo is different from my previous work in the medical sector and oil and gas, I’m excited to put everything I’ve learned into advancing our mission to connect people with wildlife and inspire conservation,” she said. “It’s an honor to be able to preserve and grow this precious Oklahoma City landmark.”
Part of her role will include taking the newest expansion, Expedition Africa, across the finish line. The new habitat spans 12 acres in the heart of the Zoo dedicated to connecting guests with African wildlife in new and memorable ways with more than 60 species native to the African continent, including lemurs, wildebeests, honey badgers, hyena and more. The centerpiece of the expansion is the new state-of-the-art giraffe barn, offering indoor views of the Zoo’s giraffe herd and year-round public feeding opportunities.
“Rebecca joins the Zoo at a momentous time and we are lucky to have her on board,” said Dr. Dwight Lawson, OKC Zoo’s executive director and CEO. “Her experience and know-how will ensure the Zoo remains on solid footing as it continues to grow as a regional and national destination for transformational wildlife experiences.”
The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily with the last entry at 4 p.m. The Zoo will be closed to the public during the daytime on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day as well as Tuesdays and Wednesdays between December 5 and February 8, 2024. Purchase advance Zoo admission tickets at okczoo.org/tickets and avoid the entry lines. Located at the crossroads of I-44 and I-35, the OKC Zoo is a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the American Alliance of Museums, Oklahoma City’s Adventure District and an Adventure Road partner. Regular daytime admission is $16 for adults and $13 for children ages 3-11 and seniors ages 65 and over. Children two and under are admitted free.
Stay connected with the Zoo on Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads, Linktree and TikTok, and by visiting our blog stories. Take a wild approach with your gift-giving this holiday season and consider a 12-month, ZOOfriends Membership Passport to the OKC Zoo. Membership Passports provide general admission year-round and exclusive offers while supporting the Zoo’s ongoing animal care and conservation programs. View all Passport options and purchase online at okczoo.org/membership.