Name: Vanessa Eckhoff

Place of Employment: Dakota Zoo

Job Title: Zookeeper

Month/Year You Started with Company: November 2013

Hometown: Stewartville, Minnesota

Role in YPN: Member, on Social Team

What does the committee feel she contributes to the network? (Statement by Team Co-leads)

Vanessa is a great player on the social team. Not only does she participate in and share her opinion at team meetings when she is able, but she also helped sit on an event committee to plan All Hands. She provided great input into the event. She is friendly and really understands what the social team is there for.

Why do you feel it is important to be part of the YPN?

Through the YPN, we are able to make a difference in people’s lives. Whether through donating to our non-profit partner of the YPN or meeting new people and making them feel welcome, it’s great to be a part.

Are you involved in other organizations in the community? If so, to what extent and why is this important to you?

Missouri River Community Band. I play the flute in the band for fun. I enjoy playing and to hear the different parts of a piece come together.

What professional advice do you have for other young professionals?

Everyone experiences speed bumps on the way to their goals but don’t let them stop you.

How do you spend your free time?

planning our wedding, playing sports, traveling, watching movies and hanging out with friends

What is your favorite quote?

“Shoot for the moon, even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”-unknown

Fun Fact(s)

• I’ve known I wanted to be a zookeeper since 6th grade.
• I train several primate species, servals, and the otters.