Lancaster Alum Pursues His Passion for Animal Care

Lancaster High School graduate Robert Lipowski, a 2024 alum of the New Visions Zoo, Wildlife and Conservation Careers program, has turned his lifelong love of animals into a focused career path. 

Now studying in the Animal Management program at SUNY Niagara, Robert is continuing to build on the foundation he developed during his time at the Buffalo Zoo as part of the ZWCC program.

As a senior, Robert studied the zoo’s sea lions for his project animal, conducting behavioral observations and even designing a scale-model exhibit.

“Since graduation, he has completed three internships at the Buffalo Zoo in animal care, including at the sea lion exhibit," said ZWCC instructor Hannah Weigand. "Robert is a hard worker with a great attitude and is on his way to a successful career."

The class was instrumental in helping Robert figure out what he wanted to do after he graduated. 

“During my senior year of high school, I got accepted into the BOCES ZWCC class," said Lipowski. "That class taught me countless skills and lessons. It solidified my passion to continue a career in animal care.”

Looking ahead, Robert plans to transfer to Canisius University after earning his associate degree from SUNY Niagara. He aims to get a bachelor's degree in Animal Behavior, Ecology, and Conservation.