Animal welfare and conservation are at the forefront of the tribute to Betty White, who passed away at the age of 99 on December 31. The Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA), the nonprofit partner of the Los Angeles Zoo, honored the late Golden Girls star for her decades-long involvement in these areas. White began working with the California zoo in 1966 and joined GLAZA's Board of Trustees in 1974.
Tom Jacobson, president of GLAZA, expressed his sadness over White's passing and extended condolences to her loved ones. He praised her work with the association, which spanned over 50 years, and emphasized her lasting impact, friendship, and advocacy for animals.
White made significant contributions during her time with GLAZA, including her involvement in the creation of the groundbreaking 1974 TV special "Backstage at the Zoo." The program showcased the zoo's animal care team and brought the zoo into the homes of thousands of Angelenos. She also played a role in the development of zoo exhibits such as Chimpanzees of the Mahale Mountains, the Campo Gorilla Reserve, and the Elephants of Asia.
Denise M. Verret, CEO and director of the Los Angeles Zoo, acknowledged White's legacy and praised her as a champion and friend of the L.
A. Zoo. Verret expressed gratitude for White's support and highlighted the impact of her advocacy in wildlife conservation. The zoo even named one of its animal residents after White during her tenure as an ambassador for the park—a newborn orangutan named Elka.
Beyond her involvement with the Los Angeles Zoo, White was a vocal supporter of all accredited zoos and wrote a memoir, "Betty & Friends: My Life at the Zoo," which showcased her passion for animals and the important conservation work carried out by zoos. She emphasized that modern zoos play a crucial role in saving endangered species and protecting wildlife.
White's dedication to animal welfare extended to her personal life, as she was a pet owner and supported various animal rescue charities. Her passion for animals has been recognized through numerous awards and honors, including the James Smithson Bicentennial Medal in 2017.
Throughout her life, White found joy in the balance between her love for animals and her successful career in show business. Despite her passing, her impact on animal welfare and conservation will continue to be celebrated.
