Beyond the exhibits, research and rescue efforts, Shedd Aquarium is shaped by the diverse voices and lived experiences of people who help bring our mission to life every day.
Shedd’s celebration of Black History Month goes beyond reflection. It’s a commitment to honoring a myriad of voices, contributions and leadership both within our walls and in the communities we serve. In years past, we’ve elevated the work of our partners through stories of students coming face to face with aquatic animals for the first time, the connections between history and nature on the African American Heritage Water Trail, an inspiring Black leader in Chicago and more.
This year, we’re turning the spotlight on exemplary Shedd staff members who share how their lived experiences, their roles at the aquarium and the significance of Black History Month are inexplicably intertwined. Through their experiences, we see how Black excellence isn’t just a drop in the bucket, but a tidal wave helping shape future leaders in the field.
Join us as we dive deep into their stories, their impact and their advice for the next generation.
Joseph Cole, Animal Care - Aquarist in Amazon Rising
What is your favorite part of what you do at Shedd?
Working with and caring for so many unique amphibians and reptiles has to be my highlight working here.
What is the most fun or unique thing you’ve experienced in your job at Shedd?
Working with a team of smart, different and outgoing individuals that always keep me on my toes and are willing to help, teach and support me throughout all of my experiences.
What does Black History month mean to you personally?
Black History Month has always been a reminder for me of all the challenges and hardships my ancestors had to triumph through for the life that I've been blessed with today. Also, it is a reminder that no matter what struggles or challenges I go through personally, never give up and never give in. If you believe in a better and brighter future, never give up hope and you shall see one.
As a Black Shedd employee, what are ways you feel you can make an impact in your role and in your community?
For one, seeing a person of color, especially an African American, in the animal care field is pretty rare. I want everyone, no matter their race, gender or religion, to know that this career path is for anyone with the passion and patience for it.
Do you have any advice to inspire youth, especially youth of color, that want to go into this field?
If you love animals, enjoy science, like to use your hands, love the outdoors, not scared to get a little dirty or wet, or see the environmental changes around you, this field is for you. These are all great reasons that will push and motivate you in this field. Having the passion to learn, help or improve things in this field will always fuel the greatness in you.
Khalfani Makalani, Director of Hiring and Training for Floor Operations
What is your favorite part of what you do at Shedd?
Training new Guest Relations team members. Everyone is so excited about their first week and I always get reawakened to what an incredible opportunity it is to work at such a historic aquarium and leader in the conservation community.
What is the most fun or unique thing you’ve experienced in your job at Shedd?
I had the most fun hosting the aquatic presentations for several years. Learning the unique behaviors of each dolphin and whale, the hand signals we use to communicate with them and sharing that with a live audience several times a day was thrilling.
What does Black History month mean to you personally?
It's a time of the year when we get to put on blast that whatever my culture says is HOT, is hot to the rest of the world; no matter what area of life we're speaking of from science and industry to culture and politics. Whatever we do, we trailblaze.
As a Black Shedd employee, what are ways you feel you can make an impact in your role and in your community?
Keep striving for the next level of leadership so others know consciously or subconsciously that they can go further. Take advantage of opportunities like this to share what I do with as many people as possible.
Do you have any advice to inspire youth, especially youth of color, that want to go into this field?
It takes a lot of intelligent, creative and hardworking people to make an organization like this thrive; no matter what field you are interested in, there is something at Shedd that is similar. Whether you love animals, social media or work at a fast-food restaurant, all of those skills and interests are a great training ground for a future at a cultural institution.