In another step forward in the partnership between Chehaw Park & Zoo, the Flint RiverQuarium, and Thronateeska Heritage Center, the group of attractions has agreed to become collectively known as the Artesian Alliance. 

While each organization will retain its individual name and identity, the new overarching name formalizes the agreement signed by the three entities in January 2019, which sought to enhance mission fulfillment while also streamlining administrative functions. 

In the last 18 months, the synergy created by the original partnership has led to joint programmatic efforts, greater operating efficiencies and cost containment, and a more effective use of limited resources 

“Smart growth means enhanced opportunities for prosperity,” said Tommy Gregors, executive director of the three organizations. “Community leaders and our supporters have valued the pro-active effort to streamline operations and merge scarce resources, while our end users have already benefitted from consolidated programs and resources.” 

The Artesian Alliance designation paves the way for future joint staffing and programming, as well as memberships and fundraising. In addition to Gregors, the alliance has appointed two employees who will serve all three organizations. 

Jackie Entz Shores, Director of Education at Chehaw since 2010, has been named Director of Education for the Artesian Alliance. In this role, she will oversee and coordinate all education staff and programming for the group. Shores was previously employed at the Center for Wildlife Education at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro, where she also earned her Master of Science degree. In addition, she holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from Georgia Southwestern University. Shores is excited about the joint educational opportunities that lie ahead for the Artesian Alliance. 

“I am ecstatic about the education adventures and endless possibilities we will be able to share with the southwest Georgia area,” she said.  

Parker Webb Douglas will serve as the Director of Membership and Development for the Alliance, heading up the membership programs for all three organizations, as well as exploring fundraising and development opportunities. Douglas is a lifelong resident of Albany, a graduate of the University of Georgia, and a longtime community supporter. She served for five years on the organizing committee for A Wild Affair, the Flint RiverQuarium’s signature fundraiser. 

“There is just so much potential to be realized with Chehaw, the Flint RiverQuarium, and Thronateeska working together. I am excited to be a part of this effort that can only enhance and strengthen the community that I love.” 

“We are much stronger together than individually,” noted Gregors. “Through the official designation of the Artesian Alliance, we look forward to both a re-energized base of support and a slate of new initiatives that will lead us into the future.”