Arkansas Money & Politics is proud to introduce its list of Influencers for 2024, those who inspire us all to reach higher, achieve more and improve things in our communities. Within this list, find leaders in the corporate, nonprofit and public-service spaces — people who provide jobs, feed the state’s economy and provide a hand up to those who need it.
The individuals on this list were handpicked by a blue ribbon panel, who culled hundreds of nominations down to the final listing. They represent not only the best of what they do, but the present and future leaders of our state, who work for the good of us all. As the state’s leading publication focused on the business, community and policy, AMP is proud to shine a bright spotlight on these outstanding achievers and their accomplishments.
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Susan Altrui
Director
Little Rock Zoo
Susan Altrui is director of the Little Rock Zoo, an organization committed to inspiring people to value and conserve the natural world. The zoo is one of Arkansas’ largest family attractions and an important destination for recreation and tourism. As director, Susan guides the care of more than 400 animals, ensures that the zoo maintains its accreditation with the prestigious Association of Zoos & Aquariums, and directs the overall strategic vision of the organization.
Under Altrui’s leadership, the Little Rock Zoo has more than doubled its annual revenue earnings and tripled its fundraising efforts with the Arkansas Zoological Foundation, a nonprofit that raises funds for the growth and development of the zoo. Altrui helped secure the largest private gift in the zoo’s history and, most recently, led an effort to secure a $12 million bond for new capital investment in the zoo. Next year, the zoo will break ground on its largest capital project ever with a renovation and expansion of animal exhibits at the front entry that will update the zoo’s amphitheater, add new animal habitats and replace old structures, such as the old spider monkey enclosure. Altrui serves on the boards of Keep Little Rock Beautiful, the Little Rock Police Foundation and Wildwood Park for the Arts in Little Rock and is former board chair of the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival.
