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The dynamic work environment at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden ultimately led Aidan Tansey to choose the MPA program at the Voinovich School, where he was recently honored with the Marty Wall MPA Scholarship in Public Administration (Nonprofit Management). 

Tansey’s job at the includes a wide variety of tasks from managing animal logistics and reports to guiding USDA inspections and assisting with complex animal transport drives. The result is a need for a high degree of flexibility.

“The Voinovich School’s online format allows me to manage my coursework with my job responsibilities,” Tansey said. “It checked a lot of the boxes I was looking for as a working professional who wanted to be able to further my career, but also my education at the same time.”

As an administrative coordinator for the Animal Department at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden and a student in the Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Service MPA program, Tansey is making significant strides in his unique field. 

Looking to the future, Tansey plans to leverage his MPA degree to advance within the zoo and ultimately attain a higher leadership position. His goal is to become a director or CEO, where he can further influence the zoo’s conservation and educational mission, which encourages people to connect with the world around them.

“The skills I’m acquiring through the MPA program are directly applicable to my role, particularly in team organization and driving cultural change,” Tansey said. “It’s also enhancing my skills and confidence to support my team and contribute to strategic management.”

Tansey’s strategic approach to his career is evident in his diverse and varied background. His undergraduate studies in accounting and conservation science, coupled with a range of internships and entry-level positions, have equipped him with a broad skill set to help him be more marketable for future careers down the line. 

“The crux of my intent has been to expand my working knowledge to engage in meaningful conversations and understand various aspects of the field,” Tansey said. “I’ve worked hard to position myself so that when I achieve my goal, I can effectively communicate and delegate responsibilities.”

Despite the long road ahead, Tansey remains committed to working his way up through his career. He encourages others to recognize the importance of their work and advises, “Go visit your local zoo, get out in nature, and connect with the world around you.”