The Director is responsible for all operations of the National Zoological Park. In addition, Directors have often actively pursued their own research interests. This was true in the Zoo's early years when acquiring animals was a major concern. It remains so today, when animal ecology and endangered species have become prominent issues in planning and operating zoos.
William Temple Horndaday was Superintendent, 1889-1890. Frank Baker served as Acting Manager, 1890-1892, and Superintendent, 1893-1916, followed by Ned Hollister, 1916-1924; Alexander Wetmore, 1924; William M. Mann, 1925-1956 (Director from 1926); Theodore H. Reed, Acting Director, 1956-1958, Director, 1958-1983; Michael H. Robinson, 1984-1999; Lucy H. Spelman, 2000-2004; David L. Evans, Acting Director, January-September 2005; John Berry, October 2005-February 2009; Steven L. Monfort, Acting Director, February 2009-February 2010; and Dennis Kelly, February 2010- .
Smithsonian Institution Archives, Agency History. Record 221394
