BOARD MEMBER

Jill is a Research and Welfare Specialist at the Los Angeles Zoo, bringing more than 40 years of experience in the animal field. Her expertise spans exotic and domestic mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. She holds an Associate’s Degree in Equine Husbandry from Pierce College and dual certificates in Exotic Animal Training and Exotic Animal Health Technology from Moorpark College.

For the past 19 years, Jill has served at the Los Angeles Zoo in roles including hospital keeper, veterinary preceptor, carnivore and primate keeper, and now research and welfare specialist. Her career also includes work as a veterinary technician in both traditional and holistic medicine. She has developed and instructed curriculum for K9 handlers, specializing in advanced scent discrimination for law enforcement and government use.

Before joining the Board at Northern Colorado Wildlife Center, Jill volunteered in wildlife rescue and rehabilitation, worked with animals in the entertainment industry, and served 11 years on the board of the Los Angeles Chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers, including as Bowling for Rhinos Committee Chair and 2021 National Conference Co-Chair.

BOARD MEMBER

Wendy brings more than 20 years of management and administrative leadership, along with over 12 years of IT experience across the nonprofit and entertainment industries. Her professional background reflects a strong blend of operational expertise, technical skill, and creative communication.

Having earned a bachelor’s degree in Film and Television from California State University at Northridge, as well as an associate’s degree in Communications and a dual certificate in Exotic Animal Training and Wildlife Education from Moorpark College, her educational foundation supports both her strategic leadership work and her passion for wildlife and public engagement.

Before transitioning into corporate leadership, Wendy worked as a zookeeper and animal trainer at Brookfield Zoo in Chicago, the Milwaukee Zoo, and Marine Life Park in Gulfport, Mississippi. Her diverse career path uniquely combines hands-on animal care experience with high-level administrative and technology management, making her a valuable asset in both mission-driven and operational settings.

BOARD MEMBER

Lloyd Vaughn serves as the Director of Sales and Marketing for a high-volume home builder in San Antonio, Texas. With more than 23 years of experience in the home building and real estate industry, he brings extensive expertise in sales leadership, strategic marketing, and customer engagement. Throughout his career, Lloyd has focused on building strong teams, developing innovative marketing strategies, and guiding clients through one of the most important investments of their lives.

Alongside his professional work in real estate, Lloyd has maintained a long-standing passion for animals and wildlife. He has an extensive background working with both domestic and exotic animals in areas such as husbandry, animal training, and conservation education. His experience includes hands-on work that supports both animal welfare and public understanding of wildlife and responsible care.

Lloyd holds an Associate of Science degree in Exotic Animal Training and Management, with additional training in Wildlife Education. His unique combination of business leadership and animal care experience allows him to bring both strategic insight and a strong commitment to conservation-focused missions.

BOARD MEMBER

Amy Pape serves as a Director of Nursing for a home health agency, bringing nearly a decade of leadership experience as a registered nurse. In her role, she oversees clinical operations, supports care teams, and ensures high standards of patient-centered service. Her healthcare background reflects a strong commitment to compassionate leadership, operational excellence, and evidence-based practice.

In addition to her work in nursing, Amy has spent much of her adult life working with exotic animals across a variety of settings. Her experience includes field research, wildlife rehabilitation, animal care and training, as well as education and conservation initiatives. This diverse background has given her a unique perspective that bridges science, welfare, and public engagement.

Amy holds a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, a Bachelor’s degree in Primate Behavior, and an Associate’s degree in Exotic Animal Training and Management with an emphasis on education. Her combined expertise in healthcare leadership and wildlife science allows her to contribute both strategic insight and mission-driven passion to the organizations she serves.