Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Virginia Beach, VA – The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) presented the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center with the Quarter Century Award , recognizing the Virginia Aquarium for 25 years of AZA accreditation and its commitment to maintaining the highest standards in animal care and well-being, veterinary care, conservation, education, staffing, facilities, safety, guest services, and more.
“This award acknowledges the Virginia Aquarium’s continuous dedication to modern zoological practices and philosophies—the hallmarks of AZA accreditation,” wrote Chris Dold, chair of the AZA Board of Directors, and Craig Piper, chair of the AZA Accreditation Commission, in a letter. “We applaud your dedicated commitment to AZA standards and policies.”
The Virginia Aquarium has been accredited by the AZA since 2001. Accreditation lasts five years, and zoos and aquariums must apply for accreditation during each cycle. The AZA accreditation process is comprehensive, evaluating the full scope of a zoo’s or aquarium’s operations and its ability to maintain high standards over time.
AZA sets high standards for animal welfare, care, and management, including animal living environments, social groupings, health, nutrition, annual welfare assessments, and enrichment, which stimulates each animal's natural behavior and provides variety in its daily routine. The Accreditation Commission also evaluates a facility’s veterinary program, involvement in conservation and research, education programs, safety policies and procedures, security, physical facilities, guest services, staffing, finances, its governing authority, and its support organization.
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center’s mission is to connect people to the marine environment, inspiring a more sustainable future. The Aquarium aspires to be a driver in conservation, education, tourism, and sustainability, leading the charge to save wildlife and their ecosystems. Owned by the City of Virginia Beach, the Aquarium operates as a city department in partnership with the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Foundation. The Aquarium is proud to be an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports the work of the Virginia Aquarium. The Foundation procures and maintains the Aquarium's exhibits, including the animals and habitats. It is also responsible for annual and capital fundraising, administration and funding for the Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Program, conservation and scientific research efforts, and the Aquarium's mission-related education programs. You can be a part of our mission by making a tax-deductible donation to support our programming.
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