GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- The John Ball Zoo board is forming a search committee to find a new chief executive.
In a news release, the zoo says the board and CEO Peter D'Arienzo have agreed to part ways. No reason was given, but the board wished him well going forward. It says the zoo board will be contracting with a national search firm specializing in zoos, aquariums, and conservation organizations.
Board Chair Rob VerHeulen says the change will not impact zoo operations or efforts to bring a new aquarium to Kent County.
Two Kent County officials also weighed in. Board of Commissioners Chair Ben Greene and Kent County Administrator Al Vanderberg released a joint statement saying they have "full confidence" in the zoo's board of directors and their judgment in making decisions that serve the best interest of the zoo.
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-----------------Statement from Kent County Board of Commissioners Chair Ben Greene and Kent County Administrator/Controller Al Vanderberg Regarding John Ball Zoo Leadership Transition
April 24, 2026
“Kent County maintains a long-term management agreement with John Ball Zoo, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, under which the Zoo manages operations and facilities while the County retains ownership. The County has full confidence in the Zoo's Board of Directors and their judgment in making decisions that serve the best interests of the Zoo and its mission of education and conservation for the residents of Kent County. We remain steadfast in our support of John Ball Zoo and its Board as they execute their Master Plan and continue exploring the opportunity to bring a world-class aquarium to Kent County.”
-----------Statement from John Ball Zoo Board of Directors - April 24, 2026
Following a period of evaluation, the John Ball Zoo Board and CEO Peter D’Arienzo have decided to part ways. We are grateful for Peter’s service and meaningful contributions to our mission over the past decade, and we wish him the very best going forward.
The John Ball Zoo Board is in the process of forming a search committee and will be contracting with a national search firm specializing in zoos, aquariums, and conservation organizations.
“This change will not impact Zoo operations or our efforts to bring a new aquarium to Kent County,” said Rob VerHeulen, Board Chair. “We have an amazing team and exciting events happening at the zoo, including the opening of our new otter exhibit on Memorial Day weekend. Visitors will feel no disruption to the great experience they have become accustomed to at John Ball Zoo.”
We look forward to keeping the community apprised of progress in the selection process and continuing to serve as a top five visitor destination in Michigan.
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Photo: Taken by Steve Katerberg.