Jay accepting the Emu Egg at the zoo’s Peck Welcome Center in 2018.
This week, we’re not going quite as far back as last Thursday: In September 2018, the Zoological Society of Milwaukee recognized president and CEO Jay McKenna with its annual Emu Egg award.
No emus were harmed in the production of this award.
Jay has served on the society’s board since 2009, and North Shore Bank has frequently partnered with the Milwaukee County Zoo — sponsoring the Safari Train since 2005 and presenting the new Cheers! Wild Lights event just last month, among many other examples. So it was no surprise to see him honored with the Emu Egg, which is given to individuals who have demonstrated a long-standing commitment to the society and the zoo.
“Some of my oldest, fondest memories as a child are of going to the Milwaukee County Zoo,” Jay says. “And some of my fondest memories raising my own children are of going to the zoo.” We asked him to share more about exactly why this has been such an important part of the community to him for so long.
He responded:
I love the Milwaukee County Zoo obviously for the place it is — a really cool, beautiful urban forest where you can see exotic animals close up, be outside, and get some exercise and fresh air.
But I also love the zoo for reasons beyond its physical charms. One is, I see people there from all over the area — or even the planet! — of all ages and backgrounds, sharing the experience. In our very messy world, I cherish feeling that sense of community and togetherness in a safe, fun, happy, and family-friendly place.
The zoo is one of the most-visited attractions in the state of Wisconsin. It is also one of best zoos in the country. Did you know that if you could not see the elephants in our zoo, you’d have to drive six hours to see the nearest ones? And the elephants are by far the biggest attraction at our zoo, according to visitor surveys. So, the zoo is critically important for the commerce of our area.
And the Zoological Society of Milwaukee, in addition to supporting the zoo itself, has for decades been a purveyor of world-class children’s education programs. If we are going to make our world a better place, that has to start with the kids. If we can reach them early and instill that sense of awe and empathy for wildlife, then hopefully we are helping to create better citizens who care about conservation, and maybe even each other!
In short, the Milwaukee County Zoo is a critically important community asset for our quality of life here in southeastern Wisconsin, and that is why I am passionate about supporting it.
Jay, center, at the ceremony with (from left) chief HR officer Molly Schissler, SVP retail banking Sue Doyle, his son Christopher, wife Lisa, and son Patrick, and VP customer support Jude Lengell.
Next Thursday, February 2, the zoo will livestream its Groundhog Day ceremonies — featuring a weather forecast by resident groundhog Gordy — on Facebook starting at 9 a.m. Fingers crossed he doesn’t see his shadow!