“The Butterfly House & Aquarium and Great Plains Zoo are here in Sioux Falls to inspire conservation of our natural world,” said chief operating officer Audrey Otto-Pepper.
For years, the conservatories have provided engaging and educational experiences for visitors and the animals in their care.
“A butterfly landing on you, touching a sea star, feeding a giraffe, or coming face-to-face with a bear are experiences that create lasting memories for children and adults alike,” said Otto-Pepper.
Together, the two organizations have strengthened the education and conservation components of their missions since combining earlier this year.
Their integration is further supported by the 11th Annual Wings & Waves Gala, an evening dedicated to celebrating the success of the organizations as they become stronger together.
The one-of-a-kind fundraising event takes place October 12 at the Hilton Garden Inn Sioux Falls Downtown and allows guests to experience live butterflies, marine life, and ambassador animals in a gala setting.
The evening will feature dinner, desserts, and opportunities to bid on unique auction items and experiences.
“All funds raised through the silent auction and the ‘text-to-give’ activities will support the merged operations of our organization, including educational programs, animal care, and conservation efforts,” shared Otto-Pepper.
Otto-Pepper shared with 605 more about her family traditions, favorite places to shop downtown, and her love of state parks.
Natural Favorite
I will always schedule my coffee and lunch meetings at Josiah’s Coffeehouse and Café. It’s also a go-to spot when friends and family are in town visiting. There’s nowhere else in town with such a warm and welcoming community atmosphere. My husband, Thomas Pepper, is a co-owner of Josiah’s, so naturally, it’s my favorite spot.
Family Outings
On cool summer mornings, my husband and I take our 4 month old son, Finnley, to the zoo to introduce him to the animal friends he gets to grow up with.
Happy Places
Nature is my happy place, and I’m grateful to experience such beautiful hikes in nearby state parks. Good Earth State Park and Palisades State Park are wonderful places for our family to get out of the city for a quick recharge.
Stampede Staples
Sioux Falls Stampede hockey games are a winter staple for us and our young nieces and nephews. The kids are just as excited about cotton candy and popcorn as they are about the game.
Wine & Dine
R Wine Bar & Kitchen is my go-to for an outing with friends or a date night. The delicious food, amazing wine selection, and beautiful historical buildings create a lovely experience. Fun fact: Thomas and I held our wedding dinner at R Wine Bar.
Moments of Serenity
One of my peaceful places is the butterfly conservatory in the Butterfly House & Aquarium. I always feel myself relaxing when I walk into the magical space surrounded by graceful butterflies, especially during winter.
Did You Know?
The Great Plains Zoo’s oldest African Penguin in their exhibit, Oliver, is 32 years old.
5 WILD FACTS ABOUT OTTO-PEPPER:
One
During the summer months, you’ll find me outside playing in the flower gardens on our acreage. We have pollinator plots to attract hummingbirds, bees, and even monarch butterflies who gather in our trees in the fall as they migrate.
Two
During our classic South Dakota winter, I’ll be inside curled up under a blanket with a book in front of our wood-burning stove.
Three
My first job during college was at the Great Plains Zoo as a zoo camp intern and train driver. I’ve come full circle as I’m at the zoo again as COO. Life is such an incredible journey!
Four
After graduating from Augustana University, I worked as a zookeeper for three years at the Great Plains Zoo. Throughout my time as a zookeeper, I cared for a variety of species, including African Penguins, Siamang Gibbons, snow leopards, and black rhinos.
Five
One of my dreams is to visit all 63 national parks with my son before he graduates from high school. There are a lot of family road trips in the future.
“We currently operate on two campuses as one organization. We’re working towards being on one campus in the next several years with the construction of a new aquarium and butterfly conservatory.” – audrey otto-pepper
Mid-Day Break
The trails behind The Outdoor Campus are a quick and convenient way for me to take a break during my work day and enjoy a bit of nature in the middle of Sioux Falls.
Proud Viking
Augustana University will always hold a special place in my heart. When I visit campus, I’m thrilled to see the Environmental Studies students’ projects, including the native prairie garden and outdoor classroom.
Supporting Local Businesses
Downtown Sioux Falls is a staple for gifts. With shops like Child’s Play Toys, Zandbroz Variety, and The Spice & Tea Exchange of Sioux Falls, I can always find unique items while supporting fantastic local businesses.
Cruising Through a Winter Wonderland
Falls Park’s Winter Wonderland has become a tradition for our family and friends. We all load up onto a party bus, tour Sioux Falls’ Christmas lights in style, and create wonderful holiday memories together.
