SAN ANTONIO - s4story -- The Feline Conservation Foundation (FCF) is proud to announce that it has been awarded the Education Award of Excellence at the 2025 Zoological Association of America (ZAA) Annual Conference, recognizing the organization's outstanding commitment to advancing wild feline welfare through professional training, public education, and collaborative conservation initiatives.

This prestigious award honors institutions that demonstrate exceptional dedication to educational outreach, capacity building, and the elevation of industry standards. For more than four decades, FCF has served as a trusted leader in wild feline husbandry education, supporting zoo professionals, private facility operators, wildlife educators, and conservation practitioners across the country.

A Legacy of Learning and Leadership

Founded in 1956 as the Long Island Ocelot Club, the Feline Conservation Foundation has evolved into a nationally recognized nonprofit committed to strengthening the standards of feline care and management in professional and private zoological settings. Today, FCF remains one of the only organizations in North America offering specialized training programs designed specifically for wild cat management.

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At the heart of this recognition is the Wild Feline Husbandry Course, FCF's flagship program. This intensive training is taught by subject-matter experts and has educated thousands of participants in topics such as animal welfare, behavioral management, nutrition, enrichment, and regulatory compliance. The course is widely used by zoological facilities to train new staff, strengthen safety protocols, and ensure the highest standards of feline care.

A Milestone for the Feline Conservation Community

"We are truly honored to receive ZAA's Education Award of Excellence," said Brian Braitsch, Executive Director of the Feline Conservation Foundation. "This recognition reflects decades of dedication from our instructors, volunteers, partners, and members—people who believe deeply in supporting both the professionals who care for wild felines and the conservation initiatives protecting them in their natural habitats."

The award also highlights FCF's ongoing work to bridge the professional zoo community with responsible private facilities, uniting diverse partners in the shared mission of conserving both species and knowledge. To learn more visit www.felineconservation.org