Carol Kruse is currently Director of Zoo Miami, the fifth largest zoo in the U.S. Previously, she served as Assistant Director from 2003 to 2011. She has been with the Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department since 1990, where she has held various roles including Grants Administrator, Chief of Budget and Finance, Director of the Deering Estate and Assistant Director for Parks Administration. Early in her career, she worked for the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians as an environmental planner where she developed a deep appreciation for both the beauty and importance of the Everglades.
She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Florida Atlantic University and a Master’s in Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University. She served as a board member of the Florida Attractions Association from 2010 to 2016 and has been a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums since 2004.
Although she doesn’t have a favorite animal, she is partial to Florida animals since she has lived in the state most of her life. Carol is married and is the mother of two sons and a grandson.