2025 40 Under 40: Jackson C. Thompson

The 102-year-old Dickerson Park Zoo is a big part of Springfield’s history, and continuing to help it thrive is the goal of current Director Jackson Thompson, 39.

Thompson came to Springfield when he enrolled at Evangel University. He was a zoo volunteer and zookeeper before becoming director.

Since then, he has continued to help future zoo professionals through the ZooCrew program, which helps teens prepare for a career working with wildlife.

Thompson also volunteers with the Ozarks Chapter of the American Association of Zookeepers, which helped the Missouri Stream Team evaluate and clean up area waterways.

“Reaching this professional accomplishment before the age of 40 is humbling,” he says. “I hope to create lasting memories for families and the tourists of Springfield as they visit Dickerson Park Zoo.”

First job? A freelance photographer for the Big Nickel. Photography has always been my creative outlet.

Proudest moment? Becoming the zoo director and meeting the greatest people along the way that have mentored me, supported me and shaped me. I count my blessings every day in the work I do with the team I do it with and a family, specifically my wife, Tallie, that supports me more than anyone.

What did you learn the hard way? You do not become an animal professional for glory or money but for the passion of saving and caring for these magnificent creatures and hopefully educating the public on how important they are for our environment. My family and mentors encouraged me to stick with what I love when I was discouraged and struggled to provide for my family. I had to learn patience and understanding. Once I chose contentment with just being a zookeeper, the Lord showed me favor and changed my life forever!