Rate My Professor Julie Smith

Julie Smith is an Associate Professor of Zoo Animal Technology in the Department of Natural Sciences at Santa Fe College, where she has served since May 2017. Her academic credentials include a Master’s degree in Conservation Biology from the University of Wisconsin-Stout, completed between 2016 and 2019, and a Bachelor of Science in Animal Ecology from Iowa State University. In her role, Smith contributes to the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, which functions as the practical laboratory for the Zoo Animal Technology A.S. program, preparing students for careers in zookeeping, animal care, training, and zoo education.

Smith has been actively involved in innovative animal care projects at the Teaching Zoo. In October 2023, she helped introduce communication button technology, supported by FluentPet, to the zoo’s family of Asian small-clawed otters, facilitating their preparation for relocation to the Memphis Zoo in March 2025. Regarding the move, she commented in a Santa Fe College news release, “This is a unique opportunity for both the otters and our students. Our team has been working diligently to ensure a smooth transition.” Her efforts emphasize practical training for students in animal communication and welfare. Additionally, Smith demonstrated enrichment techniques and button training at the AZA 2023 Mid-Year Safety Summit as part of a research project. She serves on the Avian Scientific Advisory Group, further highlighting her engagement in zoological advisory roles. Smith also supervises educational aides in Zoo Animal Technology research positions and participates in public discussions on animal behavior and communication, including appearances on podcasts like the Rekindling Podcast. Her work bridges academic instruction with real-world applications in zoo animal management and conservation education.