Every volunteer brings something special to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Some, like Sue Allen, have shaped the organization quietly and consistently across generations through decades of service.

For 45 years, Sue Allen has been a docent, donor, educator, “gorilla mom,” and passionate advocate for the Columbus Zoo, and her story is about curiosity, generosity, and a deep belief that education and conservation can change the world.

“I began my docent career guiding school groups, sometimes playing a kazoo to entertain them,” Sue recalled. “We’ve come a long way since then.”

That kazoo was just the beginning.

From a Kazoo to Baby Gorillas

In 1983, Sue was asked to become a volunteer at the Zoo’s gorilla habitat, helping take care of twin western lowland gorillas—the first twins born in the western hemisphere. That opportunity sparked a journey she never expected.

“This opportunity was the beginning of many years spent helping take care of baby gorillas, both those born here and also those transferred to the Columbus Zoo from other zoos in situations when additional professional care was needed to support their early development,” she said. “The combination of educating visitors and being part of the upbringing of gorillas gave me a life I never would have foreseen.”

For Sue, being a docent was about building connections between people and wildlife, sparking empathy, and nurturing the next generation of conservationists.

Favorite Animals and Conservation in Action

After four and a half decades, choosing favorite animals is no small task. Still, Sue knows where her heart leads her today.

“Right now, I hang around manatees and flamingos,” she said. “There are so many fun things to teach about them!”

She is especially proud of the Zoo’s manatee conservation work. “Resident foster mom, Stubby, and the Animal Care team have rehabilitated over 40 young manatees for successful returns to their native Florida waters, demonstrating our dedication to conservation,” Sue notes.

Her enthusiasm is infectious. Visitors do not just leave with facts…they leave with wonder.

The Zoo’s Reach Beyond Ohio

Sue has seen firsthand how the Zoo shapes lives throughout the world.

She recalls escorting Make-A-Wish families from across the country to meet animals and visit with Jack Hanna. She also remembers a family from Minnesota who traveled to Columbus as a graduation gift to see the manatees.

“When out-of-towners come to the Zoo, they also eat, sleep, and enjoy other parts of Columbus,” Sue said. “The Columbus Zoo is an economic and educational engine for Central Ohio. Plus, it’s a whole lot of fun for everyone!”

She is also passionate about access and equity. “Affordable tickets and transportation are provided to Columbus residents who don’t live nearby, which is especially important for educating our future leaders,” she shared.

Why Sue Gives

Sue is a docent, but she’s also a dedicated donor who believes deeply in the Zoo’s stewardship of resources and mission. “For decades, I have watched the Zoo live frugally and spend carefully,” she said. “Expansions and renovations have been well thought out.” 

She points to Partners In Conservation (PIC) as an early example of what committed people can accomplish. “PIC showed what a small group of committed people could do. And now, the Columbus Zoo is involved with dedicated groups all over the world,” Sue explained. “The Zoo’s leadership and Animal Care teams are doing incredible work. I’m excited for the future.”
 

The People Behind the Mission

When Sue reflects on her decades at the Zoo, it is the people who stand out.

“I’ve had the honor of getting to know 45 years’ worth of Animal Care teams and staff. They are kind, fun, very committed people. My heart warms as I reminisce.”

She has also witnessed extraordinary change in the field.

“When I started volunteering at the Zoo, polar bears were common and alligators were endangered,” Sue said.

Her perspective reflects how dramatically conservation outcomes can change within a single lifetime. Today, the American alligator is listed as Least Concern on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, a recovery made possible by habitat protection, science-based management, and strong policy support. Polar bears, meanwhile, are currently classified as Vulnerable, with climate change and the loss of sea ice posing the greatest threats to their future. Scientists project continued population declines without global action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect Arctic ecosystems.

Sue’s decades at the Zoo are a living timeline of conservation progress and ongoing challenges. They remind us that when people invest in wildlife, research, and education, recovery is possible, and that today’s work shapes tomorrow’s world.

A Legacy of Curiosity and Care

Sue Allen’s legacy is not measured in years alone. It is measured in students inspired, animals protected, families welcomed, and futures changed. She has given her time, her voice, and her philanthropy to a mission she believes in deeply. In doing so, she has helped the Columbus Zoo empower people and save wildlife, one conversation, one donation, and one curious child at a time.

As the Zoo looks toward the future, Sue’s story stands as a testament to what happens when passion meets purpose. It is a reminder that every docent, donor, and guest has the power to make a difference. And sometimes, that journey begins with a kazoo and a classroom full of kids.