Craig Standridge

his life's goal. His title is “Public Programs and Visitor Studies Coordinator,” which translates to a position that handles programs through the education department concerning visitors and the general public. He oversees public programs, which includes family programs like the “Zoo Snooze,” as well as citizen science programs like the amphibian monitoring and the pika monitoring programs, which are aimed at helping animals in the wild and getting the general public involved in local conservation. In addition, he is the Red Wolf SSP Educational Advisor, which is a volunteer position through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums aimed at laying the frame work for fostering conservation efforts and awareness for animal species– in this case, the red wolf. Nature has always been important to Craig. Prior to his twelve years (and counting) of service to Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, he worked as a park ranger in North Carolina and New York City. He also volunteered at a science center called “SciWorks,” which had some animals on display, but was not an AZA-accredited facility. He knew that he wanted to focus on environmental and educational conservation, so he began applying at organizations that supported his goals, like nature centers and zoos. When he got his interview at PDZA, he informed me that he had to take three separate planes from North Carolina to arrive for his 8-hour interview, which paid off because he was the perfect candidate for the job.

The red wolf is one of Craig's favorite species of animal. In addition to being the SSP Educational Advisor, he has written and published a graphic novel about Red Wolves titled “Return of the Red Wolf,” which is aimed at teaching school-age children about this rare animal. Craig even has two wolf tattoos, one of which is from a Salish design.

When asked about other activities that occupy his time when he is not at the zoo, he informed me that he enjoys video games, reading (mostly sci-fi and fantasy), hiking, hunting, and “nature type-stuff”. He and his wife volunteer at a local organic farm that provides food for the needy. He is also a state certified private security firearms instructor, which he described as something he is proud of, as the process was very challenging.

Craig says that he would like to learn more about what inspires people to care about conservation. In line with this goal, he is currently working on a program through the zoo that is aimed at evaluating and increasing empathy in school-age children. When asked what he knows the most about, he replied that he knows the most about red wolves, but feels that there is always more to know on this subject. When asked if he has a goal that he would like to accomplish in his life, he responded that he would like to publish another book, preferably a bi-lingual book for the Cherokee Nation Wolf Clan in Oklahoma.

When asked about a unique or quirky habit, he informed me that every time he writes a grant, he buys a pouch of grape-flavored Big League Chew gum. If he could have an unlimited supply of any food, it would be limes, which he says are good in or on anything. If he could have any super power in the world, he would like to restore an ecosystem. The most interesting food he has ever eaten was Sopa de Mondongo – soup made from cow stomach, but has also eaten cow eyes – neither of which he particularly liked.

Craig Standridge is a perfect example of someone who practices what he preaches, and shows dedication and interest in animal conservation both in the workplace, and on his own time. Be sure to stop by his office in the education building and thank him for all that he does at PDZA!