Riverbanks Park Commission Announces New Chair

Mr. Phil Bartlett Takes Office for 2014-2016 Term

COLUMBIA, SC – The Riverbanks Park Commission, the governing authority of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, is proud to announce Mr. Phil Bartlett as the newly elected chair.

Bartlett has been an active member of the Commission since November 2009; he most recently served as vice chair during the 2012-2014 term. Over the next two years, Bartlett will be responsible for guiding his fellow commissioners in business decisions related to the Zoo and Garden such as park improvements, maintenance, staffing and operations.

Bartlett has an extensive background, serving in various capacities from business to law enforcement and the military. He currently is a professor at the University of South Carolina’s Moore School of Business and also works as a student mentor at USC’s Center for Entrepreneurial and Technological Innovation. In addition, Bartlett is an active member of the Columbia Rotary Club, Alpha Kappa Psi Professional Business Fraternity and the Blythewood Masonic Lodge.

Bartlett has undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of South Carolina, Wesleyan University and Webster University.

Other Commission members taking office this year include Mrs. Mary Howard as vice chair, Mr. Bud Tibshrany as treasurer and Mr. Lloyd Liles as secretary. For a complete listing of Commission members, visit www.riverbanks.org.

About Riverbanks Park Commission: 

The Riverbanks Park Commission is the governing authority of the Riverbanks Special Purpose District and is responsible to the citizens of the Midlands for the financial stability of the Zoo. It consists of seven members appointed for six-year terms. Two members are appointed by the Richland County Council, two by the Lexington County Council, two by the City of Columbia, and one jointly by the three entities.

About Riverbanks Zoo and Garden: 

For 40 years, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has connected individuals, families and groups with the world’s wildlife and wild places. Riverbanks is a special purpose district governed by the Riverbanks Park Commission, which consists of seven members, two appointed by Richland County Council, two by Lexington County Council, two by the City of Columbia, and one jointly by the three entities. It is the mission of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden to foster appreciation and concern for all living things. Riverbanks Zoo is located at 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC 29210. The Botanical Garden entrance is located at 1300 Botanical Parkway, West Columbia, SC 29169. The park is open daily from 9am to 5pm, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Admission is $13.95 for adults, $11.50 for children ages 2 – 12 and free for children under 2. Group rates and other discounts may apply. Year-round membership packages are also available. For more information, call Riverbanks at 803.779.8717, visit www.riverbanks.org orwww.facebook.com/riverbankszoo.