Mayor Yemi honors outgoing Cheyenne Mountain Zoo CEO Bob Chastain with Spirit of Colorado Springs Award

Mayor Yemi Mobolade surprised outgoing Cheyenne Mountain Zoo President and CEO Bob Chastain with the Mayor's Spirit of Colorado Springs Celebration Award during the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Board of Directors meeting on May 14.

The award recognizes individuals whose leadership, service, and impact help shape the character and future of Colorado Springs. Chastain was honored for nearly 30 years of service to Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, including more than two decades as president and CEO.

"Great cities are shaped by great institutions, and great institutions are shaped by great leaders," said Mayor Yemi Mobolade. "Bob's leadership has left an indelible mark on Colorado Springs, transforming Cheyenne Mountain Zoo into a world-class institution where families create lifelong memories and conservation comes alive."

Under Chastain's leadership, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo grew into the most visited paid attraction in the Pikes Peak region, welcoming approximately 800,000 guests annually. During his tenure, the Zoo expanded its conservation-centered experiences through projects such as African Rift Valley, Rocky Mountain Wild, Water's Edge: Africa, and the International Center for the Care and Conservation of Giraffe.

Chastain also led the Zoo to become the first water-neutral zoo in the world and helped launch Quarters for Conservation, which has generated millions of dollars to support wildlife conservation efforts globally.

In 2021, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo received a completely clean accreditation inspection from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, a rare distinction recognizing excellence in animal care, operations, and organizational culture.

The Mayor's Spirit of Colorado Springs Award recognizes exceptional individuals and organizations whose contributions positively impact the Colorado Springs community.