ROYAL OAK, Mich., May 30, 2006 – The Detroit Zoological Society today announced the appointment of Richard S. Duane, Jr. as Director of Human Resources.  He is responsible for HR programs, recruitment, organizational development and employee relations at the Detroit Zoological Institute and the Detroit Zoological Society. 

Duane joins the Detroit Zoological Society from MGM Grand Detroit Casino, where he served as director of HR and Employee Services.  Prior to that, he held positions in human resources at Advo, Inc., Marketing Force, Inc. and Mervyn’s. 

“Rick has an impressive track record in effective human resource management in a variety of fast-paced customer-focused environments.  His experience and knowledge will prove invaluable to us,” said Detroit Zoological Society Chairman Gail Warden.

Duane earned a bachelor’s degree from California State University in Hayward, and holds certifications in PHR (Professional in Human Resources) and CWCP (Certified Workers Compensation Professional). 

A native of the San Francisco Bay area, Duane resides in Novi, Mich.

The Detroit Zoological Institute is comprised of the Detroit Zoo and the Belle Isle Nature Zoo.  Founded in 1928, the Institute is committed to celebrating and saving wildlife.  Situated on 125 acres of naturalistic exhibits, the Detroit Zoo is located at the intersection of Ten Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, just off I-696, in Royal Oak.  The Detroit Zoo is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily April through October, with extended hours 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesdays during July and August.  Admission is $11.00 for adults 13 to 61, $9.00 for senior citizens 62 and older, and $7.00 for children ages 2 to 12; children under 2 are free.  For more information, call (248) 398-0900 or visit www.detroitzoo.org.  The Belle Isle Nature Zoo is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and provides educational programming with interpretive staff support from the Huron-Clinton Metroparks.  For more information, call (313) 852-4056.  The Detroit Zoological Society works to promote the general welfare and interests of the Institute.  Financial support has allowed the Zoo to open new exhibits, develop important education and conservation programs and implement major beautification projects.  To help the Detroit Zoological Society through financial support, partnership opportunities, membership or volunteering, call (248) 541-5717.
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