Georgia Aquarium ‘limits operations’ after CEO Dr Brian Davis’ sudden death as tributes paid to ‘leader and mentor’

THE president and CEO of the Georgia Aquarium has died.

Dr. Brian Davis, who had a PhD in education from Georgia State University, died suddenly on Tuesday.

YouTube/Georgia Aquarium

Georgia Aquarium

His cause of death has not yet been released.

“Brian was an exceptionally talented and intelligent individual who left a tremendous imprint on the education and zoological fields,” per Georgia Aquarium’s press release .

“Furthermore, he was a beautifully compassionate human being who lifted others up and dedicated himself to creating a caring and diverse space at the Aquarium.”

It added,” He was a dynamic thinker and always pushed the boundaries of what we could achieve, making Georgia Aquarium an extraordinary place.”

Davis was one of the first employees at the Aquarium, located in Atlanta, Georiga, before it opened in 2005.

He was the Vice President of Education and Training from June 2010 to December 2014 and the Executive Vice president from June 2018 to January 2020, per his LinkedIn .

Davis took on the role of President and CEO in January 2020.

“Brian’s indelible imprint made all those he knew better – we are better because of Brian,” according to the press release.

“We are heartbroken by this news. Brian was a giant in leadership with his intellect, wisdom, and imagination,” said Steve Koonin, Chairman of the board of Georgia Aquarium.

Aquarium activities have been limited and staff have been given a few days off to grieve.

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‘SHOCKING’

The Aquarium also posted its statement to Facebook where it was flooded with support and condolences.

“Shocking. May Dr. Davis’ family find some solace in the legacy he leaves behind at Georgia Aquarium,” one person wrote.

“Oh my gosh! My heart is breaking for my Aquarium family,” recalled a user

I worked with Brian when he was leading the education team at the Aquarium and he was always so kind and focused on a people-first mentality that I always respected.”

Georgia Aquarium facts

Georgia Aquarium, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is a non-profit organization.

When it opened in 2005, it was the largest aquarium in the world with over 11 million gallons of water to house sea creatures.

In 2012, the S.E.A. Aquarium in Singapore and the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China surpassed its large size. However, the Georgia Aquarium is still the largest aquarium in the United States and the sixth biggest in the world.

Georgia Aquarium is a scientific institution that aims to entertain and educate.

The popular Aquarium prides itself on the prevention of animal cruelty and conducts research by working with wildlife in human care and their natural habitats.

It features high-quality exhibits and programs, providing engaging guest experiences that help conserve aquatic biodiversity around the world.

Another person also remembered their time spent with Davis.

“Brian made me feel like the most interesting, important person in the world when he talked to me. His intelligence, charisma, and passion for the work are unmatched,” they shared.

“What a staggering loss. So much love to his family and his work families.”

“Shocked. Absolutely shocked. He was always an electric presence in any room or meeting I was in with him,” wrote another saddened user.

“He cared so much for what the aquarium stood for and of course, the wellbeing of the staff. I’m so sad about this. Sending all my love to the GA Aquarium team, his friends, and family.”

Mystic Aquarium of Mystic, Connecticut , and San Antonio Zoo of San Antonio, Texas , were also crushed by the news and sent their condolences.

“Thoughts with everyone at Georgia Aquarium,” Mystic Aquarium wrote.

Tim Morrow, the President and CEO at San Antonio Zoo wrote, “We, at San Antonio Zoo, are shocked and saddened by this news. We send our thoughts and prayers to the team at the aquarium and communities where Brian had an impact.

“He was a friend and mentor to me and I will miss him immensely.”

Georgia Aquarium