Elephants & Emotion – A Lifelong Bond

When Dr. Priya Bapodra-Villaverde was growing up, she was captivated by the natural world. Elephants, especially, held a special place in her heart - not only for their intelligence and deep family bonds, but also because of their cultural significance. Ganesha, the elephant-headed god known for removing obstacles, was her favorite Hindu deity. That connection, passed down through her family, helped shape the compassionate values that guide her today.

Every time Dr. Priya travels to an elephant range country, she adds an eleplant charm to a necklace she started with her mother. Each one tells a story—a quiet reminder of the path she’s walked, the lives she’s touched, and the passion that drives her forward.

Now, a Diplomate of the American College of Zoological Medicine and a globally respected veterinary leader, Dr. Priya’s journey is a powerful reminder that compassion and connection, when supported, can create lifelong impact. When you donate to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, your gift doesn’t just help animals. It also supports the people dedicating their lives to protecting them. To make your donation and help make a positive impact for animal care and conservation, Give Wildly today at https://www.columbuszoo.org/givewildly. 🐘