Dig Deeper

Recognize a Staff Member

Devin Cook was a student, a lacrosse player, a mentor and a treasured member of the Visitor
Services Team at The Maryland Zoo. Tragically, this bright young man who worked two jobs to
pay for college was killed in July 2014. This year marks the 10th anniversary of his death. Police
have yet to solve his murder.

Devin was a very popular and outgoing member of the Zoo staff. He went out of his way to
greet visitors, assist them at the Shuttle stops or help them feed the giraffes. Many visitors were
familiar with his big smile and knew him by name.

To honor his memory, the Zoo and Devin’s family have created the “Devin Cook Service Award”
to recognize outstanding customer service here at the Zoo and we need your help!

Is there a Zoo employee who has provided you or your family with exceptional service or an
exceptional guest experience? We’d like to know about it! We invite you, our loyal Zoo
members, to submit nominations for this award based on your experiences here at the Zoo
during 2024. Think back on your visits this year, and let us know if anyone in a green zoo staff
shirt fits the bill. (Note: The great folks in red shirts are our Volunteers and are not eligible for
this award.)

Submissions are due by December 31st . The award will be presented in early 2025 and we’ll
be sure to let you know who has been honored.

Please note: Zoo staff and their families are not eligible to nominate other Zoo staff for this award, however, Zoo volunteers may submit nominations if they wish to do so.

Please nominate your choice before December 31, 2024.













    Your First Name:
    Your Last Name:
    Email:

     

    In a visit to the Maryland Zoo in the past year, what Zoo employee has provided you and/or your family with an exceptional guest experience? (List first name and last name, if possible, or first name and area you have encountered that employee – ex. John at Giraffe Feeding Station) If you don’t know the employee’s name, please provide a detailed description including physical appearance, location and approximate time of encounter. The great folks in red shirts are Zoo volunteers and are not eligible for this award.

     

    Please tell us about the specific experience(s) – guest experience, educational experience, event experience or animal encounter – provided by the employee that created a memorable visit for you and/or your family. (Limit 150 words)