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Shedd Aquarium Society

Learn about this cause: What are the reviews? Is it Legit? Do I like the mission? What is the CEO's salary?

EIN: 362167918 ✦ Chicago, IL ✦ Designated as a 501(c)(3)

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Overview

What is Shedd Aquarium Society?

The Shedd Aquarium Society, based in Chicago, Illinois, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring compassion, curiosity, and conservation for aquatic life. Established in 1930, the institution has welcomed over 119 million visitors and provided memorable experiences that foster personal responsibility towards local waters, global oceans, and wildlife. With free admission promotions for Illinois residents and various discounts, Shedd Aquarium aims to be accessible to the public. Inside the aquarium, visitors engage with living exhibits, behind-the-scenes experiences, and educational platforms, creating meaningful connections with aquatic animals. The organization's mission is to sustain a world thriving with aquatic life through the love, understanding, and protection of people. Shedd Aquarium Society offers after-school programs, labs, workshops, weeklong citizen science programs, and collaborates on research vessels, such as the Coral Reef II in Florida and the Bahamas, to deliver progressive and engaging conservation initiatives.


Official website here: www.sheddaquarium.org

What are the reviews and ratings of this charity?

Charity Navigator Rating: 100%, Four-Star out of Four Star rating.

The Shedd Aquarium Society has received a perfect score of 100%, reflecting exceptional accountability and financial management as well as strong leadership adaptability. The organization boasts a robust governance structure with 97% of its board members being independent, which enhances its accountability. Its financial health is also commendable, with a low liabilities-to-assets ratio and a high percentage of expenses directed towards its programs.

The Society's commitment to transparency is evident through their well-documented policies, including conflict of interest and whistleblower policies, as well as comprehensive financial statements readily available on their website. Their investment in leadership development further indicates a proactive approach to organizational growth and resilience.

While the organization stands out in many areas, the focus on maintaining high standards in both accountability and financial practices is crucial for sustaining its positive reputation and operational integrity. Overall, the Shedd Aquarium Society exemplifies best practices in nonprofit governance and is well-positioned to continue its mission effectively.


This AI summary has been generated from information found on Charity Navigator.

Is Shedd Aquarium Society legitimate?

Shedd Aquarium Society is a legitimate nonprofit organization registered as a 501(c)(3) entity. Shedd Aquarium Society submitted a form 990, which is a tax form used by tax-exempt organizations in the U.S., indicating its operational transparency and adherence to regulatory requirements. Donations to this organization are tax deductible.


Heare are some key statistics you may want to consider:

Executive Compensation: $2,567,421
Professional Fundraising Fees: $206,396
Other Salaries and Wages: $22,307,266

For more financial information, click here


Official website here: www.sheddaquarium.org

What is the mission statement of Shedd Aquarium Society?

The Shedd Aquarium Society fosters a connection between animals and guests through exhibits and education programs, with the ultimate goal of promoting aquatic conservation. The organization's mission is driven by a vision of a world thriving with aquatic life, sustained by people who love, understand, and protect it.

Since the aquarium opened its doors in 1930, it has provided visitors with opportunities to learn about aquatic animals and inspire personal choices for animal welfare. When people experience these animals up close, it evokes an emotional, empathetic response that shifts attitudes and fosters a personal responsibility for the stewardship of local waters, global oceans, and wildlife.

Shedd Aquarium offers free admission to Illinois residents throughout the year, and discounted admission for students, seniors, teachers, police and fire personnel, and active-duty military. Inside the aquarium, engaging exhibits and behind-the-scenes experiences create memorable connections to animals. Additionally, millions of learners worldwide make virtual connections through Shedd's educational online platforms.

The aquarium shares its mission by telling accessible, meaningful stories to the public through public relations and marketing efforts, incorporating conservation, learning programs, animal care, and guest experience. As a leader in immersive informal science education, Shedd offers progressive and engaging programs including afterschool programs, labs and workshops, and weeklong citizen science programs for teens.


Official website here: www.sheddaquarium.org

Who is the CEO of Shedd Aquarium Society?

Bridget C Coughlin is the Principal Officer of Shedd Aquarium Society. The CEO's salary of Shedd Aquarium Society is $705,457 and their total compensation is $852,390.


Official website here: www.sheddaquarium.org

What is the revenue of Shedd Aquarium Society?

Shedd Aquarium Society's revenue in 2022 was $94,920,299.


Official website here: www.sheddaquarium.org

Who are the executives of Shedd Aquarium Society and what are their salaries?

The average compensation at Shedd Aquarium Society during 2022 was $45,642. There are 545 employees and 344 volunteers at Shedd Aquarium Society.


Here are 60 key members and their salaries (Shedd Aquarium Society's CEO's salary is $705,457 and their total compensation is $852,390):


Bridget Coughlin Phd (President/Ceo)
  • Compensation: $705,457
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $146,933
Brian A Kenney (Chairman Of Board (Thru May 2022))
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
David J Koo (Chairman Of Board(Starting May 2022))
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Joseph S Braik (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Mary L Burke (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Paul J Carbone (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
William J Chase (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Shannell Clubb (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Elizabeth Hartigan Connelly (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
David L Epstein (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Richard E Erwin (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Tyrone C Fahner (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
David Foulkes (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Sarah N Garvey (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
H John Gilbertson Jr (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Brent Gledhill (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Anders Gustafsson (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Tracie Haas (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Gavin Hattersley (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
John Hesselmann (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
John Holmes (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Robert Jordan (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Richard L Keyser (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Thomas N King (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Anne E Krebs (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Jerry Krulewitch (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Katie Lawler (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Anna M Livingston (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Robert Lyons (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Harvey L Miller (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Susan E Morrison (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Andrew Nocella (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Ellen L O'Connor (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Ginevra Reed Ralph (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Zaldwaynaka Scott (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Nancy S Searle (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Lloyd A Semple Jr (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Kimberly Simios (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Sandra L Simon (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Alex Singla (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Mary Sehnert Smith (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Tracy Souder (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Joyce St Clair (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Mark Stainton (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Richard Tobin (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Jane L Warner (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Steve Weller (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Jeffrey Wright (Trustee)
  • Compensation: $0
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $0
Gary Gordon (Cfo/Treasurer/Secretary)
  • Compensation: $313,987
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $32,437
Regina Rodriguez (Chief Development Officer)
  • Compensation: $338,945
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $37,169
Meghan Curran (Chief Marketing And Experience Officer)
  • Compensation: $305,485
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $46,389
Peggy Sloan (Chief Animal Conservation Officer)
  • Compensation: $230,487
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $27,092
Nancy Anschel (Svp, Human Resources)
  • Compensation: $223,703
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $35,906
Robert Wengel (Svp, Facilities And Security)
  • Compensation: $222,293
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $26,024
Sarah Hezel (Vp, Design & Exhibits)
  • Compensation: $194,177
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $34,261
Catherine Casey (Vice President & General Counsel)
  • Compensation: $204,213
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $18,232
Danielle Dumerer (Vp, Technology And Information Security)
  • Compensation: $187,177
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $32,772
Kelly Mclaughlin-Kennedy (Vp, Philanthropic & Strategic Initiatives)
  • Compensation: $195,972
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $25,239
Andrea Rodgers (Svp, External Affairs & Marketing)
  • Compensation: $185,815
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $31,459
Charles Knapp (Vp, Conservation Research)
  • Compensation: $168,769
  • Related: $0
  • Other: $37,988


Official website here: www.sheddaquarium.org

Where can I find the form 990 for Shedd Aquarium Society?

Shedd Aquarium Society's most recent form 990 was submitted in 2022 and can be accessed here.


Official website here: www.sheddaquarium.org

Learn more at the official website: www.sheddaquarium.org

Mission Statement of Shedd Aquarium Society

The Shedd Aquarium Society, a pioneering nonprofit organization, is dedicated to fostering a deep connection between animals and the public through captivating exhibits and educational programs. With a mission to inspire compassion, curiosity, and conservation for aquatic life, the Shedd Aquarium envisions a world where people love, understand, and protect aquatic species.

Since the Shedd Aquarium opened its doors in 1930, it has welcomed over 119 million guests, offering them unique opportunities to interact with aquatic animals up close and learn about their care. By creating memorable experiences that evoke emotional responses, the Shedd Aquarium aims to shift attitudes and foster a personal responsibility for the protection of local waters, global oceans, and wildlife.

To ensure accessibility, the Shedd Aquarium provides free admission days for Illinois residents, discounted admission for Chicago residents, students, and senior citizens, and free admission for teachers, police and fire personnel, and active-duty military. Inside the aquarium walls, guests engage with a range of impactful experiences, from living exhibits to behind-the-scenes tours, that forge lasting connections with aquatic animals. Moreover, millions of learners worldwide connect with the Shedd Aquarium through its educational online platforms.

As a proactive leader and resource for immersive informal science education, the Shedd Aquarium offers progressive, relevant, and engaging programs such as afterschool programs, labs and workshops, and weeklong citizen science programs for teens in the Great Lakes and aboard its research vessel, the Coral Reef II, in Florida and the Bahamas. Through its commitment to storytelling, public relations, and marketing efforts, the Shedd Aquarium shares its mission with the public, inspiring them to take action for aquatic conservation.

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Impact




October, 2024

Shedd Aquarium Society fosters a profound connection between people and aquatic life, significantly advancing conservation education and awareness. Since opening its doors in 1930, it has welcomed over 119 million guests, offering them memorable experiences that inspire emotional and empathetic responses to marine animals. This hands-on engagement motivates individuals to take personal responsibility for the stewardship of local waters, global oceans, and wildlife.

Through a range of accessible programs, Shedd Aquarium actively works to make its educational offerings available to diverse communities. Initiatives such as free admission days for Illinois residents and discounted rates for students, seniors, and military personnel ensure that all members of the community have the opportunity to connect with nature. In addition, the aquarium provides impactful guest experiences, including living exhibits and behind-the-scenes encounters that further deepen this connection.

Shedd Aquarium also extends its influence beyond the physical walls of the institution. Millions of learners engage with educational resources online, creating virtual experiences that reach audiences worldwide. Moreover, the aquarium leads immersive informal science education programs, offering afterschool activities, workshops, and citizen science initiatives that engage teens in meaningful conservation efforts on the Great Lakes and beyond.

By integrating conservation messaging into its public relations and marketing strategies, Shedd Aquarium not only shares compelling stories about its mission but also catalyzes broader conversations about aquatic conservation and the role of individuals in protecting our planet's waters and wildlife. Through these efforts, Shedd Aquarium Society significantly influences how people understand and value aquatic ecosystems, ultimately cultivating a society that is curious, compassionate, and committed to conservation.




This information is meant to be a general summary of Shedd Aquarium Society. Please take the time to review official sources before making any decisions based upon the content provided here.


Financials

This financial information is from Propublica.

Revenue
$94,920,299 (2022)
Expenses
$57,622,512 (2022)
Efficiency

Other financial information:

This information is from the most recently submitted tax form from this organization, which was in 2022.

  • Investment Income: $10,086,197
  • Program Service Revenue: $43,131,800
  • Gross Receipts: $106,584,233

Assets and Liabilities:

  • Total Assets: $628,183,114
  • Total Liabilities: $88,228,182
  • Net Assets: $539,954,932

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Programs

Programs are reported by nonprofits in their tax forms and are normally their tax-exempt activities.

ADMISSIONS

Revenue

$39,713,796

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS

Revenue

$1,252,041

FOOD SERVICE

Revenue

$1,166,247

Organization Details

Founding Year

1924

Principal Officer

Bridget C Coughlin

Main Address

1200 SOUTH DUSABLE LAKE SHORE DRIVE, CHICAGO, IL, 60605

NTEE Category

Code: D500 - Animals

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