The Omaha Zoo Foundation is excited to announce the appointment of Kiley Thiele as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. Thiele brings over 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience to the position and assumes the role as a successor to Tina Cherica following her departure to join Heritage Omaha as its new President.
Kiley has served as the Omaha Zoo Foundation’s Senior Vice President of Development and Chief Development Officer for the past nine years, playing a key role in advancing philanthropic initiatives and fostering deep connections with the Zoo’s generous donor community.
“I am honored to step into this role and continue building on the strong legacy of leadership at the Omaha Zoo Foundation,” said Thiele. “This Zoo holds a special place in my heart, as a parent, a community member and an advocate for wildlife. It’s a privilege to lead the Foundation in support of a place that creates lifelong memories while driving critical global impact.”
The Omaha Zoo Foundation, established in 1984, is a non-profit organization with a mission to support Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and the Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park in delivering the highest standards of animal care, protecting wildlife and habitats worldwide, and fostering meaningful connections between people and nature. The Foundation’s efforts focus on securing the Zoo’s long-term vitality through philanthropy, ensuring it continues to thrive for generations to come.
Kiley’s deep connection to the Zoo is both professional and personal. A lifelong Zoo supporter, she recalls visiting with her children, renewing her membership every March and donating in honor of loved ones. Her leadership is guided by a belief in the transformative power of the Zoo and a vision for its continued growth.
"Kiley Thiele is an outstanding leader with a strong record of building relationships to support the Zoo” said Mogens Bay, chair of the Omaha Zoo Foundation board of directors. “Her deep understanding of our mission, values and community uniquely positions her to lead us forward with both continuity and vision. We’re excited for what lies ahead.”
Under Kiley’s leadership, the Foundation will continue to partner with donors and the Zoo’s leadership team to advance innovative programs, expand conservation efforts, and ensure the Zoo remains a world-class destination for education, discovery, and inspiration.
“We are excited to welcome Kiley into her new role and look forward to continuing to work together,” said Dr. Luis Padilla, President and CEO of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and the Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park. “Her dedication, experience and passion for our mission make her the perfect person to lead the Foundation as we look to the future.”
For more information about the Omaha Zoo Foundation and how to make an ongoing impact through philanthropy, visit OmahaZooFoundation.org.