For Jane Cirigliano, a love of animals is a lifelong thread woven through her memories, her community, and her career. From childhood zoo visits to leadership roles across the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds, Jane’s story is a testament to how a single connection to wildlife can grow into a powerful commitment to conservation and community.

Jane’s Zoo story began early. Growing up more than two hours away, the Columbus Zoo was a place tied to some of her favorite childhood memories and a spark for a lifelong love of animals. That connection deepened years later when she returned as an adult, visiting with her best friend and her friend’s children. Jane and her husband, Jim, began visiting The Wilds in 2013, quickly becoming members and, eventually, part of a close knit community of animal lovers, volunteers, and photographers. What started as visits soon became something much more personal.

As Jane and Jim planned a move to Columbus to be closer to family, she didn’t wait until she arrived to get involved. Instead, she joined Friends of the Columbus Zoo in 2016 and went on to serve on the board for several years. Her involvement continued to grow, as she became an Adult Volunteer in 2019, a docent in 2022, and later that same year officially joined the team as Director of Advertising and Marketing for the Zoo, The Wilds, Zoombezi Bay, and Safari Golf Club—the same position that she serves in today. 

One region at the Columbus Zoo holds a particularly special meaning for Jane—Polar Frontier. During a difficult time when her father was very sick, and Jane was traveling to a hospital in Cleveland each weekend, the Zoo became a source of comfort. Before she even activated her membership, Jane and her dad spent time together watching the Zoo’s webcams from his hospital room. He had always dreamed of going to Alaska, and seeing the brown bears, Brutus and Buckeye, brought him immense joy during those moments.

When Jane finally saw Buckeye in person, the moment was unforgettable. He came up to the habitat glass, sat down in front of her, and enjoyed a snack—an interaction that cemented a lifelong bond. Buckeye became Jane’s very first Columbus Zoo ADOPT program purchase, and she continues to adopt him every year on her birthday, honoring both her love for the Zoo and the memories she shared with her father.

Jane believes deeply in the Columbus Zoo’s role within the community. To her, it’s a place where people form lasting memories, learn about the natural world, and discover their role in protecting it. “The Zoo inspires care and action by connecting people to wildlife in impactful ways, while also serving as a leader in conservation, education, and research with impacts that reach far beyond Central Ohio,” says Jane.

Her unwavering support of the organization comes from gratitude as much as belief. The Columbus Zoo has given Jane a sense of community, a deeper connection to wildlife, and a clear sense of purpose. Having seen firsthand the dedication and passion of those behind the scenes, she’s committed to supporting the mission in every way she can through volunteering, donating, and amplifying the Zoo’s work through her professional role.

Jane's story reflects the heart of the Columbus Zoo itself. It's a place where connection leads to inspiration, and inspiration leads to action.

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