By Eric Stann
May 26, 2026
Contact: Eric Stann, StannE@missouri.edu
Photos courtesy of Kirby Meyer
When guests walk through the front gates of the Saint Louis Zoo, every detail of their visit is shaped with intention. That responsibility now belongs to Kirby Meyer, BJ ’08, MA ’09, who was recently named the zoo’s first chief experience officer — a role she describes as her dream job.
From first impressions to lasting takeaways, Meyer helps ensure each visit connects people not only to the animals, but also to the nonprofit organization’s broader conservation mission. The role brings together her years of experience in storytelling, audience engagement and design.
She credits the degrees she earned from the Missouri School of Journalism with helping shape how she approaches her work today.
“The journalism school taught me to stay curious, ask the right questions and really listen,” she said. “Those skills guide much of what I do, from evaluating guest feedback to finding new ways to improve the experience.”
Turning curiosity into connection
Every day, Meyer and her team create what she calls mission‑rich experiences, where storytelling, education and recreation intersect.
As guests move through the zoo, carefully crafted narratives help them understand not only the animals they see, but also the behind‑the‑scenes work supporting species survival. Interpretive elements highlight animal care, research‑driven habitat protection and how individual actions can contribute to the organization’s mission of wildlife conservation.
“Narratives on the Zooline Railroad, educational signage and interpretive experiences invite visitors to turn their curiosity into support,” Meyer said. “They deepen our understanding of animals and what it takes to protect them.”
By weaving these goals into every touchpoint — from the first click on the website to the follow-up survey after guests leave — Meyer aims to create an experience that leaves visitors feeling inspired and connected.
“I want people to have a wow moment, connect deeply with animals, understand the stories we’re telling about conservation and feel motivated to take action — while also simply enjoying a great day together in a place that brings our community closer to nature,” she said.
A foundation built at Mizzou
Meyer’s current role began taking shape years earlier at Mizzou, where a strategic communications assignment — designing an advertisement for a zoo — sparked an early connection to the field.
“I completely fell in love with it,” she said.
At the School of Journalism, she built the skills she now applies to analyzing guest experiences and aligning teams around a shared mission. Meyer also valued the opportunity to explore coursework beyond journalism, including business and economics, as well as engage with professors who encouraged her to advocate for herself and take ownership of her career path.
Beyond the classroom, Meyer credits Mizzou with helping shape her leadership style. As a resident assistant for a Freshman Interest Group and a teaching assistant in the Graduate School, she learned how to support others, communicate clearly and lead authentically.
She remains a strong believer in the “Mizzou Mafia,” the journalism school’s alumni network. When she moved to St. Louis early in her career, fellow alumni helped her make connections. Today, she continues that tradition by mentoring other Mizzou graduates.
A nonlinear journey
Before joining the zoo’s staff, Meyer spent years in corporate marketing and design, building expertise in audience behavior, storytelling and experience design. While the roles varied, each helped prepare her for the position she currently holds.
That nonlinear journey shapes the advice she now shares with students and alumni. Rather than chasing titles, Meyer encourages people to focus on what excites them and where their strengths lie. Skills are transferable, she believes, and purpose often reveals itself over time.
At the center of her approach is a self-described “childlike” curiosity. By staying open to new questions and possibilities, Meyer continues to connect people with wildlife and conservation while building a deeply fulfilling career.
