Before working at the Zoological Society of San Diego, Doug Myers had worked for the Anheuser-Busch wildlife and theme parks for 11 years, in roles from tour guide to trainer to keeper to operations manager and director. In 1982, Doug started his career with the Zoological Society as general manager of the Wild Animal Park, and in 1985, he was selected as the new executive director of the organization. One of his first goals was to begin implementing the Diamond Edge Plan, the long-range plan that had recently been completed for the organization as a guide to take it to its 75th anniversary. Betty Jo Williams had served on the Zoological Society's board of trustees since 1979. She had most recently been first vice-president of the board before being elected as president, to begin her duties in January 1986. Betty Jo also served on the Society's education, development, botanical, finance, buildings and grounds, and public relations committees. A member of the San Diego community for more than 30 years, Betty Jo was also active in the Junior League of San Diego, served as vice-president of the Natural History Museum board of trustees, and volunteered with a number of local organizations, including the San Diego Opera.