This Women’s History Month, City Schools celebrates the many remarkable women who have made their mark on the history of City Schools and the world. From teachers and administrators to graduates, their stories are part of the nearly 200-year legacy of City Schools.
In 1961, a Paul Laurence Dunbar High School alumna walked into The Maryland Zoo and broke through both racial barriers and long-standing limitations of the time. At a time when there were very few females in the field, she became the first Black female senior zookeeper at The Maryland Zoo. Armed with only her high school diploma and a deep love of animals, she was hired by Zoo Chief Arthur Watson at just 21 years old. Her passion led to a nearly 40-year career, much of which she spent training young zookeepers and staff—some of whom still work at the zoo today.
At a time when Zoos operated differently than they do today, Wilson became known for working with larger animals, though in reality, she worked across the Zoo’s entire collection. Amanda Fabian, Senior Director of Conservation Education, said, “She worked with all the…charismatic animals, plus all of the little ones,” reflecting both her range and her dedication. Today, zookeepers are much more likely to specialize in one particular animal breed.
“Obviously, she had some grit and determination to make it as a woman and to make it as a woman of color in that field,” Mike Evitts, Senior Director, Marketing & Communications at The Maryland Zoo said. “Her rapport with animals was something.”
Wilson’s impact extended beyond the animals she cared for. She was widely remembered as both a mentor and a leader. Fabian described her as someone who “definitely left her mark,” not only through her work, but through the relationships she built. For many, her presence made a lasting impression— Fabian says that those who worked with Wilson said, “she was just fun… a very nice person to work with.”
Evitts mentioned how rare it is to find someone like Wilson who was good with animal care and also with training staff and educating those about the work. “She was a mentor to a lot of people.”
Her legacy continues to shape The Maryland Zoo today. As the Zoo celebrates its 150th anniversary, Wilson is being recognized as a key figure in its history, with her story featured in historical markers and anniversary displays.
Wilson passed away in 2020. Two years later, in 2022, The Maryland Zoo established the Mary Wilson Scholar Program, an initiative designed to carry her legacy forward. Now entering its fourth year, the program provides an 8-week paid internship for four students interested in animal care, conservation, and related areas. Focusing on students from Maryland and those underrepresented in the field, the program aims to open doors that have historically been difficult to access.
Fabian remarked that the focus of the Scholar program is to expand diversity. ”This was our way of trying to help the pathway of more diverse zookeepers,” said Fabian.
Importantly, this internship is paid—ensuring students do not have to choose between gaining experience and earning income. Participants receive hands-on training and exposure to a wide range of careers connected to zoos, from animal care to conservation science. The program also builds a growing alumni network, creating what organizers describe as “a peer-to-peer connection” that continues beyond the summer experience.
Wilson’s story remains central to that effort. Her example continues to inspire new generations, particularly students who may not have seen themselves reflected in the field before. As one staff member put it, “It’s hard to picture a thing until you see someone else doing it.” Wilson showed what was possible—and the program named in her honor is helping others follow that path.
Today, that impact is already visible. The Zoo recently hired its first former Mary Wilson Scholar as a zookeeper, a milestone that signals the program’s growing success.
For students considering similar careers, Zoo staff stress the value of gaining experience early. Volunteering, internships, and coursework in biology, zoology, or psychology can provide a strong foundation. They also emphasize the realities of the work: while it offers close interactions with animals, it demands discipline, commitment, paperwork, food preparation, and cleanup.
As Fabian puts it, the role is fueled by “love and passion for the animals,” not by glamour.
At its core, The Maryland Zoo’s mission extends far beyond its gates. Through global conservation partnerships, research, and education, the Zoo plays a role in protecting endangered species around the world. The animals in its care, staff explain, serve as “ambassadors” for their counterparts in the wild, helping to ensure those populations survive for generations to come.
That work reflects the same spirit that defined Mary J. Wilson’s career. Her determination, skill, and commitment helped open doors in her time. Today, her legacy continues to guide the future—both at The Maryland Zoo and for the students who will shape what comes next.
For City Schools students, her story is a powerful reminder that these opportunities remain within reach for those with passion and grit. From classrooms to careers, the path she carved continues through programs like the Mary Wilson Scholar Program and experiences available to students today. We are proud of alumni like Mary J. Wilson, whose legacy continues to inspire and impact the world.
Photos provided by The Maryland Zoo
Created by City Schools with assistance from AI