Meet the Team
Executive Director
Molly Gezella-Baranczyk
Molly has 25 years of diverse professional experience with nonprofit organizations dedicated to animal health. Prior to joining AAZV, she had been with the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association where she served as Executive Director. During her tenure, she increased membership and member services, modernized and improved operational efficiencies, and stewarded a cultural shift to enhance support and engagement of the organization’s mission. Earlier in her career, Molly cared for animals directly at zoos like the Minnesota Zoo, Milwaukee County Zoo, and Northeastern Wisconsin Zoo. Her love of animals and passion for wildlife protection have been a driving force throughout her career. Molly holds her Master of Public Affairs in Nonprofit Management and Leadership from the Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota, and her Bachelor of Science in Animal Biology from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.
Executive Director Emeritus
Dr. Rob Hilsenroth, D.V.M.
Dr. Rob, as formerly known on the ABC Affiliate in Denver, has been in the nonprofit sector as an Executive Director for the past 26 years. Before that, he started his professional career as a veterinarian and had his own practice for 13 years until he decided to help the animals by being their spokesperson on their health care. With his background in animal sciences, training in the nonprofit world, and media experience, he continues to bring individuals together for the good of many causes, especially the animals. In his spare time, Rob enjoys flying his prop plane and spending time with his wife, Linda.
Administrative Assistant
Julie Best
Julie Best has administrative experience working in environments from a small family-owned business to large corporations. Julie has a bit of an adventurous soul and loves to travel, discovering lands, cultures and wildlife wherever she goes. She spent a few years in the Rockies of Montana before moving to South East Georgia to help her parents in 2017. Julie has always been an animal and nature enthusiast and believes that we do not have a future without zoo animals and wildlife.
Public Relations & Fundraising Associate
Sydney Kirk
Sydney Kirk graduated the University of North Florida with a bachelor's degree in communication. She has experience designing campaigns and writing copy. In addition, Sydney is a life-long animal lover and even pursued a veterinary technician license. She enjoys helping others and implementing creative ideas into her work. Sydney is a Jacksonville native and likes to draw, paint, and explore new places in her free time.