Charles Paddock Zoo appoints new director
Cynthia Stringfield.
Cynthia Stringfield succeeds Alan Baker, who retired in April after nearly 23 years of service
– The City of Atascadero has announced the appointment of Cynthia Stringfield as the new Zoo Director of the Charles Paddock Zoo. Stringfield will assume her role on July 1. She succeeds Alan Baker, who retired in April after nearly 23 years of service.
Stringfield brings extensive experience in zoological management, conservation, education, and animal husbandry. She leaves her position as Senior Vice-President of Animal Health, Conservation, and Education at ZooTampa, a role she held for nearly five years. Previously, she served as a tenured professor and Department Chair at Moorpark College for 15 years and worked with the Santa Barbara Zoo’s Animal Care and Health Team for six years. Her past experience includes roles at the Los Angeles Zoo, contributing to its accreditation with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA).
Stringfield has made significant contributions to the recovery of the endangered California Condors. She participated in the California Condor program and served on the Recovery Team as its only veterinarian. Her career also includes work with small and exotic pets in Los Angeles, Marine World Africa USA in Redwood City, and Vallejo, and she is a USFWS Certified critical care veterinarian. She served on the board of the Manatee Rescue and Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) and chaired its Veterinary Committee and Fiscal Committee. Stringfield holds a Doctorate from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Zoology from UC Davis.
“We look forward to Cynthia Stringfield continuing the important work our staff members, volunteers, and community organizations have achieved throughout the years,” said City Manager Jim Lewis. “She has the experience and knowledge to truly make our zoo a regional asset and a center for climate and habitat conservation. Her passion and expertise are welcome to our team. The City Council has voiced unanimous support of once again achieving AZA accreditation and guaranteeing our wonderful zoo continues its enormous benefits to residents and visitors in Atascadero and the entire Central Coast.”
“We couldn’t be more excited to have Cynthia Stringfield join our team at the Charles Paddock Zoo!” said Director of Community Services & Promotions Terrie Banish, “We are looking forward to learning from her wealth of experience, expertise, and guidance to take our zoo to the next level.”
The Charles Paddock Zoo is open daily and located at Atascadero Lake Park on Hwy 41/Morro Road, one mile west of Hwy 101. For information, visit www.charlespaddockzoo.org or call (805) 461-5080.
