AES Board of Directors - Tina Torres, Mindy Ussrey, Liz Beem & Linda Reifschneider
On June 3-6, the Asian Elephant Support Board gathered in Little Rock, Arkansas for our annual in-person Directors Meeting. This was the first time since 2019 that Directors have been able to meet face-to-face due to the COVID-19 travel restrictions and the first ever in-person meeting for our newest Directors - Mindy Ussrey, Liz Beem and Tina Torres. The Little Rock Zoo extended their hospitality and offered their conference room and of course a visit with their Asian elephants, Sophie, Babe & Zina.
As travel is just beginning to get back to normal, AES was so happy to have the opportunity to visit a Zoo that has been a long-time supporter of our mission to care for and conserve Asian elephants.
Asian elephants, Zina and Babe enjoying watermelon treats
Having missed a year, there was a lot to cover at the meeting, including renewing our focus on what it is that we do at AES, new and improved communication approaches, fundraising opportunities, ways to make the most from the generous support that we receive from donors, and so much more. While a lot of work was conducted during a very short period of time, the Directors had a chance to get acquainted, catch up and share stories about our love for all-things elephant while we were housemates at a lovely little bungalow in the heart of Little Rock for the weekend. And we did not miss the opportunity for some fun as well. After a great visit to the Zoo with behind the scenes visits with the elephants, black rhinos and black-footed penguins, the evening was spent at Riviera Maya where we shared a delightful dinner with Little Rock Zoo Staff.
While a lot of work was conducted during a very short period of time, the Directors had a chance to get acquainted, catch up and share stories about our love for all-things elephant while we were housemates at a lovely little bungalow in the heart of Little Rock for the weekend. And we did not miss the opportunity for some fun as well. After a great visit to the Zoo with behind the scenes visits with the elephants, black rhinos and black-footed penguins, the evening was spent at Riviera Maya where we shared a delightful dinner with Little Rock Zoo Staff. Also joining us for dinner was AES Advisor, Heidi Riddle and her daughter Tatiana. Heidi has been influential in guiding AES on many projects over the years and we were so happy to have her company.
Many thanks to everyone at the Little Rock Zoo, including Syd Tanner, Fran Lyon and the Elephant Team including Kristin and fiancé Jeff, Johnny, Justin, Will and Chris for welcoming AES.
The AES Board is excited to implement what we learned and worked on over the course of the weekend for the betterment of Asian elephants as we continue to work to fulfill our goals.