Ovintiv and the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo Partner to Break Down Barriers to Education Programming

24 JANUARY 2024 (Calgary, AB) – A generous contribution is fueling equitable access to out-of-the-box educational programming for junior high students (grades 7 to 9) in Calgary. Ovintiv has partnered with the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo to form the Ovintiv Wilder Academy, contributing $225,000 over the next three years to eliminate financial obstacles that may have traditionally limited some schools from participating in programming at the zoo.

Through the sponsorship, the zoo’s Conservation Education team will work with local Calgary school boards to provide this opportunity to junior high classes (grades 7-9) at under-served schools. Thanks to Ovintiv’s generous support, approximately 40 to 50 classes annually will now be able to participate in the zoo’s curriculum-based conservation education programs.

“Enriched experiences are what shape our lives, which is why we are proud to partner with the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, supporting students and schools by providing barrier-free access to unique educational programming,” said Rachel Moore, Executive Vice President of Ovintiv’s Corporate Services. “Our investment in the Wilder Academy program supports our commitment to fostering inclusion to inspire future generations to protect and preserve wildlife and wild places for a sustainable future together.”

In addition to helping inspire the next generation of conservationists, Ovintiv is committed to taking action in support of wildlife conservation. A further $75,000 investment over three years will be directed towards the Wilder Institute’s Burrowing Owl Conservation Program supporting the zoo’s efforts to help safeguard this Endangered prairie bird in Alberta.

The zoo serves as a unique “living” classroom, offering several program options, both on-site and in-school, that prioritize inclusion and accessibility for all styles of learners. As students interact with diverse species and ecosystems, they develop a sense of curiosity and wonder that will sustain them throughout their schooling.

“Our education programs are designed to take learning beyond the classroom,” said Laura Glick, Manager of Conservation Education at the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo. “Through the Ovintiv Wilder Academy, approximately 1,800 students per year will be able to visit the zoo, engage in conversations, and participate in high-impact classes that inspire a lifelong love of learning and conservation!”

The Ovintiv Wilder Academy paves the way for students to unlock their full potential and encourages them to embrace their education as an adventure filled with exploration and discovery. Partnerships of this nature are instrumental in ensuring access to knowledge that may fuel the next generations of conservation champions.

Schools or teachers interested in registering their classes can explore the many program options offered by the zoo here.

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For additional information contact:

Alison Archambault

Director, Brand & Engagement

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo

403.232.7766 | 403.919.9482 | mediarelations@calgaryzoo.com

Patti Posadowski

Senior Investor and Media Relations Advisor

Ovintiv

403.645.2252 | patti.posadowski@ovintiv.com