New Zoo Collaboration is First of Its Kind

Northampton Community College (NCC) has launched an exciting and innovative community education course, Introduction to Zoo & Wildlife Enrichment, in partnership with the Lehigh Valley Zoo. This one-of-a-kind program debuted in Summer 2024 and has already gained significant recognition as the only zoo collaboration course of its kind in the country that is open to the public as a non-credit offering. 

Designed originally for veterinary technician graduates interested in enrichment, the course has since expanded its scope to welcome a broader audience. Biology students, prospective NCC veterinary technician and biology students, zoo interns, zoo staff, wildlife center staff, and anyone passionate about the well-being of captive wildlife, can benefit from this educational opportunity. 

The program combines engaging lectures at the college with an interactive lab experience hosted at the Lehigh Valley Zoo. Over the span of the course, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of enrichment—what it entails, how to implement it effectively and safely, and how to care for the health of captive species. Students will learn an introduction to animal behavior, welfare, and zoo conservation principles. 

“One of the most exciting parts is the subject matter. Enrichment for captive wild animals is essential for mental and physical well-being of the animal,” said Tracey D’Imperio-Lasslett, veterinary technician professor at NCC. 

The lab component, held at the Lehigh Valley Zoo, provides participants with a visual, hands-on education in enrichment techniques, offering practical experience that complements the theoretical knowledge covered in lectures. 

"As soon as I learned the course was available, I signed up right away," said Victoria Colver, an NCC veterinary technician student. "I'm on the path to having a career working with wildlife and exotics. This course challenged us to think critically about what types of enrichment an animal would benefit from and how to make corrections when something isn't going as anticipated. I wholly recommend this course to anyone interested in working with zoo animals, wildlife, exotics, and even domestic pets!" 

For more information or to register, visit northampton.edu/HealthcareCourses, and scroll to course code INZWE100. For questions, email D’Imperio-Lasslett at Tdimperio@northampton.edu.