The Zoological Society of Milwaukee presented president and COO Jay McKenna with one of its highest honors, the coveted Emu Egg Award, at a dinner on September 13 at the Milwaukee County Zoo’s Peck Welcome Center.

To receive the Emu Egg, an individual must “demonstrate consistent meritorious service and exceptional contributions to the Zoological Society,” according to the society. Jay has served on the society’s board since 2009 and is part of its Capital Campaign Cabinet, helping get the zoo’s “Adventure Africa” project under way. The project is the first step in a plan to totally transform the zoo over the next two decades.

North Shore Bank has sponsored the zoo’s Safari Train since 2005 and its Family Free Days since 2008. We were also part of this summer’s “Beasties Safari” exhibition.

Senior vice presidents Molly Schissler and Sue Doyle, Jay’s son Christopher, his wife Lisa, his son Patrick, and vice presidents Jude Lengell and Kevin Wilderman, pictured above with Jay, joined him at his table at the awards dinner.