May 22, 2012

DENVER ZOO HONORS LIFETIME TRUSTEE BRUCE BENSON
Zoo Renames Exhibit “Bruce D. Benson Predator Ridge” for Lifetime of Service

Denver Zoo honored Bruce D. Benson, President of the University of Colorado, for his long-time leadership and philanthropic support by renaming its award-winning habitat for lions, hyenas and African wild dogs Bruce D. Benson Predator Ridge. The new name was unveiled to Benson, his wife Marcy, and close friends and colleagues at a special ceremony on May 21.

"Bruce embraced the innovative design for Predator Ridge and led our campaign to make it a reality. It's fitting that we recognize him by naming our award-winning exhibit in his honor," says Denver Zoo President/CEO Craig Piper.

"Bruce Benson has had a profound impact on Denver Zoo's innovative leadership in education, conservation and exhibits," says Katie Schoelzel, Chairman of the zoo's board of trustees. "He also is a dedicated philanthropist who has made tremendous investments in Denver Zoo and so many other worthy organizations in our community."

Bruce D. Benson is an Honorary Life Trustee of the Denver Zoological Foundation. He served as Chairman of the Board from 1997-2000 and as a member of the Executive Committee for 15 years. Benson's leadership spearheaded the successful 1999 Zoo Improvement Bond Campaign, development of the zoo's parking garage, as well as fundraising efforts for Congo Basin, the Conservation Carousel and the award-winning Predator Ridge exhibit and Entrance Complex that opened in 2004. During Benson's term as chair, the zoo opened a number of important projects including the Gates Conservation Education Center, Conoco Zoo Gardens and Wildlife Theater, and Dragons of Komodo.

Bruce Benson's leadership also had a positive impact on the long-term financial health and operation of Denver Zoo. He successfully led efforts to update the nonprofit Denver Zoological Foundation's cooperative operating agreement with the City and County of Denver. He also helped form the Colorado Zoological Trust that manages the zoo's endowment and guided the zoo to increase critical operating reserves.

Upon learning of the naming, Bruce Benson noted "Denver Zoo has been a wonderful resource for our city and state for more than a century, and I am privileged to have been able to work with many dedicated and talented people to help make it the major attraction it is today. It's an honor to have this world-class exhibit named for me and I am humbled by the opportunity to continue to be part of the rich tradition of Denver Zoo."

"Bruce helped us accomplish tremendous things in support of our mission to secure a better future for both wildlife and people by encouraging our board and staff to think creatively and act boldly," remarked Piper. Benson continues to serve as ongoing counsel and advisor to the Denver Zoological Foundation's Board of Trustees.