Charles Hopper will be the next president and CEO of the Santa Barbara Zoo, following a comprehensive national search, the zoo has announced.
Hopper will succeed Rich Block, who is retiring in January after 26 years of zoo leadership.
Hopper brings his own leadership experience in the zoological and aquarium industry, most recently at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, California, where he was the chief operating officer.
Before his time with Birch Aquarium, Hopper held multiple leadership positions with the Seattle Aquarium, and served in the United States Air Force.
Known for his strategic mindset and operational expertise, Hopper has been recognized for his ability to drive growth, deepen community engagement, and foster organizational excellence, the zoo said.
“Finding someone to succeed Rich Block was no small task,” said Jim Jackson, vice chair of the Santa Barbara Zoo Board of Directors, and head of the transition committee.
“Rich has left an indelible mark on the zoo, and it was vital for us to find a leader who could build on that legacy while charting a bold path forward,” Jackson said.
“Charles rose to the top of our list because of his impressive leadership background, ability to connect with communities, and passion for conservation and education. We believe he is the right person to lead the zoo into its next era,” he said.
During his tenure at Birch Aquarium, Hopper spearheaded several transformative initiatives, including deepening guest and community engagement, achieving record attendance, and driving revenue growth, the zoo reports.
Under his leadership, Birch Aquarium recently approved a new Master Plan for renovation with a fully funded, $18 million first phase beginning this fall.
Hopper’s ability to cultivate partnerships and foster a culture of innovation earned him industry recognition and solidified his reputation as a results-driven leader, the zoo said.
“It is a profound honor to be entrusted with the leadership of the Santa Barbara Zoo,” said Hopper. “Rich Block has set an extraordinary standard, and I am deeply inspired by the zoo’s unwavering commitment to conservation, education, and creating unforgettable guest experiences.
“I look forward to collaborating with the talented and dedicated staff, passionate volunteers, supportive board, and community to build upon this strong foundation and guide the zoo toward an exciting future.
“The zoo’s collaboration with California State University Channel Islands and its ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation are especially impressive, and I am excited to help amplify these efforts,” Hopper said.
Hopper will make history as only the third person in the zoo’s 61-year history to serve in this leadership role, and the first African American to hold the position.
Hopper said he recognizes the significance of this milestone as an opportunity to inspire others, and is committed to creating a welcoming environment for all.
“When we think about creating impactful change in any field, we need to consider the big picture,” said Hopper. “Conservation must be accessible to everyone because building a robust pipeline of future leaders is crucial for driving meaningful, long-term change.
“Representation is not just about seeing oneself in a role; it’s about showing others what’s possible. My path has been unconventional, but it’s precisely this unique journey that has prepared me for this role.
“I hope to inspire future leaders to see their varied experiences as powerful assets that can drive positive change in any field, including conservation.”
Hopper is also actively involved in the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), most recently serving on the Board of Directors, and on various committees.
He said he is committed to fostering professional development opportunities for the next generation of zoo and aquarium leaders, and his experience within the AZA will be important as he leads the Santa Barbara Zoo.
Block expressed confidence in Hopper as his successor: “It’s been a true privilege to lead this incredible institution for over two decades,” he said. “I do not doubt that Charles will continue to advance the mission of the zoo, and I’m excited to see the zoo’s continued success under his leadership.”
During Block’s leadership, the Santa Barbara Zoo enjoyed numerous achievements, including becoming the first zoo on the West Coast to be designated a Certified Autism Center; creating a preschool program during the COVID pandemic that became California’s first licensed outdoor preschool; opening the namesake Richard Block Conservation Hub; and spearheading a conservation partnership with California State University Channel Islands, the first of its kind in the country.
Hopper’s vision aligns with the zoo’s core mission of promoting the conservation of the natural world through engaging and memorable guest experiences.
Hopper joins the Santa Barbara community with his wife Aisha, their three children, and granddaughters. The family enjoys exploring the outdoors by hiking.
Hopper, an advocate for music, is a member of the Recording Academy.
Learn more about the Santa Barbara Zoo at www.sbzoo.org.