Conservation Lecture Series

Cheetah Conservation Fund Discussion

Dr. Laurie Marker, Founder and Executive Director of Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF), has dedicated over 50 years to cheetah conservation. ​ She established CCF in Namibia in 1990, transforming it into a world-class research, education, and conservation institution. ​ Laurie pioneered the Livestock Guarding Dog program, reducing livestock losses and mitigating human-wildlife conflict. Her efforts have stabilized Namibia's cheetah population, making it the largest in the world. ​ Laurie has also addressed issues like bush encroachment through biomass programs and tackled illegal wildlife trade in Somaliland. ​ Her work extends globally, including the India Cheetah Reintroduction Project. Laurie’s conservation strategies integrate wildlife, livestock, and community needs, aiming to restore ecosystem balance and save cheetahs in the wild.

Discover how the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium is actively engaged in this program, with its dedicated staff utilizing their expertise and knowledge in various hands-on projects!

Event Information:

Date: Friday, April 25
Time: 7 pm - 8:30 pm
Price: GA: $15 • FOTZ $10 • Student: $5
VIP: $40 per adult • $20 per child (ages 5-12)
Join us 5:30-6:30 pm for a reception, meet & greet with Dr. Laurie Marker, appetizers, and complimentary beverages. VIP children will have the choice to either attend the lecture or attend the kids conservation program.

Add on: Kids Conservation Explorers: Cheetah Conservation Edition

Want to attend but need an option for the kids? We’ve got you covered! We offer a great opportunity for our younger conservationists to explore cheetahs. Our educators will share engaging curriculum about cheetahs, their home and current threats. This program is geared for children ages 5-12.

$10 per child with purchase of General Admission ticket to the Cheetah Conservation Fund Discussion

To register your children for Kids Conservation Explorers, purchase your tickets to the event, then you will have the option to add on the kids’ event tickets.