Christopher Conner, Manager of King Conservation Science Scholars joined the Chicago Zoological Society at Brookfield Zoo as the Manager of the King Conservation Science Scholars in 2021. Prior to his career in conservation, Chris has served in several roles including high school teacher, early childhood teacher, Creative and Trainer for Apple. Within conservation, Chris has also served in several different roles including zookeeper, ambassador animal trainer and community outreach specialist. Chris has been recognized personally and communally for the work of him and his teams through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Significant Achievement in Diversity Award, a State of Florida Cultural Fusion Award, and a City Community Service and Mentorship Award to name a few. Chris received a bachelor’s degree in Sociolinguistics from Tougaloo College, his graduate degree in Biological/Conservation Sciences from Miami University and is currently a doctoral student leading research regarding the effects of climate change on sociocultural factors as they pertain to the long-term efficacy and sustainability of youth-centric conservation education programs and experiences.