Calm under pressure

During a series of active threats that required the evacuation of more than 2,000 guests and staff at Zoo Miami, Cody Teape, a Guest Support Specialist with the Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces (PROS) Department, demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and composure under highly stressful and rapidly evolving circumstances. In the absence of his supervisor, Cody immediately stepped into a leadership role, helping to coordinate a safe, organized response that prioritized the well-being of both guests and staff.

Working within the Incident Command and Unified Command structure, Cody played a critical role in organizing response efforts and ensuring coordination among multiple teams, Zoo staff, and responding agencies. His ability to remain calm, communicate clearly, and delegate responsibilities effectively allowed evacuation procedures to be carried out in a safe and efficient manner. He also kept leadership informed by providing timely updates as the situation developed.

Throughout the incident, Cody demonstrated a strong commitment to teamwork and collaboration. He worked closely with law enforcement, internal zoo teams, and other partners to ensure a unified response, while also supporting his colleagues and reinforcing clarity around roles and responsibilities. His approachable and steady presence helped reduce confusion and anxiety among both employees and visitors during a tense and rapidly evolving situation. 

Cody’s actions reflected a high level of integrity and accountability. He remained dependable and consistent in his decision-making, maintaining transparency and professionalism. His leadership not only ensured an effective emergency response but also reinforced the Department’s standards of safety and service.

In addition, Cody demonstrated innovative thinking by adapting strategies in real time to meet the challenges of the incident. By applying lessons learned from prior debriefs, he helped improve evacuation procedures and the setup of command locations, enhancing the safety and coordination of all involved. His ability to think critically and implement practical solutions contributed to a well-managed and effective response.

Cody also showed strong stewardship of resources, ensuring that staff were deployed effectively and that facilities, animals, and park assets were protected throughout the evacuation. His thoughtful approach extended to the diverse needs of the community, emphasizing clear communication and support for guests who may have required additional assistance, including families, children, and individuals with disabilities.

Overall, Cody’s performance exemplified excellence in emergency response. His leadership, teamwork, and commitment to safety ensured a successful outcome during a complex and high-pressure situation, while reinforcing the department’s mission to provide safe, accessible, and welcoming spaces for the community. In recognition of his outstanding actions and leadership during this incident, Cody was awarded PROS Employee of the Quarter.