Shedd Aquarium Mourns Loss of Visionary Former Director, William "Bill" Braker

Shedd Aquarium is sad to announce the passing of Director Emeritus William “Bill” Braker. Braker had a 43-year career at Shedd Aquarium and led the aquarium from 1964-1993. He is credited with modernizing Shedd’s experience with exhibits like Caribbean Reef and the creation of the world-renowned Abbott Oceanarium.

Braker grew Shedd’s mission, notoriety and professionalism through greater involvement with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the development of an education department, the onboarding of conservation researchers and the acquisition of a research vessel docked in Florida. Braker also oversaw several public engagement efforts including the launch of the aquarium’s membership and volunteer programs.

“It was Bill’s bold vision backed by determination and the required perseverance to see that vision come to fruition, which transformed Shedd Aquarium from a cabinet of curiosity to a well-respected and globally renowned institution,” said Dr. Bridget Coughlin, president and CEO of Shedd Aquarium. “There was no greater advocate in our corner than Bill, and we will miss him dearly.”

Braker began working at Shedd in 1950, shortly after graduating from Northwestern University with a degree in zoology. A year later, he was drafted into the army to fight in the Korean War.

While he was overseas, Shedd Director Walter Chute wrote to Braker to see if he would be interested in an assistant curator position at Shedd upon his return. He accepted, and trained under Chute until 1964, when Chute retired and he was promoted to Director. In doing so, Braker became the third person to hold this leadership position.

Braker would hold that position for nearly 30 years, retiring shortly after the opening of the Abbott Oceanarium – the world’s largest marine mammal pavilion at the time that brought 3-million additional gallons of cold water to Shedd as well as iconic animals like beluga whales, dolphins and penguins. This addition also created space for Shedd to take in rescued otters from the Exxon Valdez oil spill in 1989 – a species that Shedd continues to rescue and care for to this day.

“Even now, it is nearly impossible to look around the aquarium and see something that does not bear Bill’s influence,” said Dr. Coughlin.

“Shedd Aquarium’s prominence in Chicago, with 2 million annual guests coming from around the world to look eye to eye with animals – this can all be traced back to Bill. In losing him, Chicago loses one of its transformative civic leaders.” said Steve Smith, former chairman of the Board and Life Trustee.

After retirement, Braker remained a steadfast supporter of the aquarium and stayed in close contact with his colleagues and coworkers. Shedd Aquarium is deeply grateful and indebted to his fearless leadership, tireless advocacy, forward-thinking vision and dedication to excellence.

VISUALS: Find photos of William Braker and his time at Shedd here:
https://personal.filesanywhere.com/guest/fs?v=8e70688f5e676db0a396&C=50. Photo Credit: ©Shedd Aquarium