Ellyssa Kwasney
Seymour
Summary
Experienced Zookeeper with broad knowledge in animal behavior, enrichment activities and exhibit maintenance. Strengths include strong observational skills, problem-solving acumen, and ability to handle stressful situations effectively. Previous roles have demonstrated clear improvements in animal welfare standards, while actively engaging audiences through educational programs on conservation issues.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Marine Biology Intern
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
08.2025 - Current
- Performed daily husbandry tasks including feeding, exhibit cleaning, and water quality assessments.
- Recorded behavioral changes and health indicators, working closely with aquarists and veterinary staff.
- Supported public education programs and engaged guests in conservation messaging.
- Followed AZA standards in animal care and safety procedures.
Wildlife Keeper
Ober Mountain
07.2024 - Current
- Provide daily husbandry, behavioral monitoring, and welfare assessments for a range of wildlife species, including multiple avian taxa.
- Conduct daily avian training sessions, focusing on husbandry behaviors and positive reinforcement techniques.
- Develop, implement, and evaluate enrichment programs that promote species-appropriate physical and cognitive activity.
- Support veterinary procedures through animal handling, health checks, and administering care under supervision.
- Engage guests through keeper talks, tours, and conservation-focused education.
- Maintain accurate animal records in ZIMS.
Wildlife Keeper Intern
Ober Mountain
05.2024 - 07.2024
- Assisted with feeding, exhibit cleaning, and general husbandry across mammal, bird, and reptile species.
- Helped create enrichment items and monitored behavioral responses to enrichment.
- Observed daily behavior patterns and communicated concerns to senior keepers.
- Gained experience with ZIMS reporting and data entry.
Shift Leader / Training Lead
Cruze Farm Dairy
08.2021 - 05.2025
- Effectively managed and organized shifts for a team of five to nine members, ensuring smooth operations during busy periods.
- Developed and implemented training programs for new employees and shift leaders.
- Supervised and led employees to maintain productivity and customer service levels.
Veterinary Assistant
Cruze Farm Dairy
06.2022 - 09.2022
- Assisted with heifer pregnancy checks and ensured accuracy of medical data.
- Evaluated health and welfare of cattle.
- Managed cattle movement flow, ensuring safety and efficiency during handling and transportation.
Veterinary Intern
Sevier County Animal Clinic
01.2021 - 05.2021
- Conduct blood testing, X-rays, and vaccinations.
- Administered medications and maintained feed schedules for quarantined animals.
- Maintained a clean and organized work environment by regularly cleaning kennels and stalls, adhering to best practices in sanitation.
Education
Master of Arts - Zoo Science
West Liberty University
Online05-2027
Bachelor of Science - Animal Science, Wildlife and Fisheries
University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Knoxville, TN05-2025
Skills
- Avian husbandry and training
- Enrichment planning and implementation
- ZIMS record keeping
- Public speaking and guest education
- Team leadership and training
- Proficient in Excel
Certification
SCUBA certification (in progress)
Timeline
Marine Biology Intern
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
08.2025 - Current
Wildlife Keeper
Ober Mountain
07.2024 - Current
Wildlife Keeper Intern
Ober Mountain
05.2024 - 07.2024
Veterinary Assistant
Cruze Farm Dairy
06.2022 - 09.2022
Shift Leader / Training Lead
Cruze Farm Dairy
08.2021 - 05.2025
Veterinary Intern
Sevier County Animal Clinic
01.2021 - 05.2021
Master of Arts - Zoo Science
West Liberty University
Bachelor of Science - Animal Science, Wildlife and Fisheries
University of Tennessee, Knoxville