With over 20 years of combined experience in the educational and zoological facilities, our founders are bringing their passions home to North Carolina. 

Mario Lawrence

Mario comes back home to Brunswick County after being gone for the last several years.  A South Brunswick graduate of 2003, Mario has gone on to secure a Bachelors degree in Biology from Averett University and two Masters degrees in Marine and Wetland Studies and Secondary Education from Coastal Caroline University.  Previously, Mario has held many upper level management positons at the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo in Thurmont, Maryland (a 501(c)(3) organization) and at Roer's Zoofari in Vienna, Virginia, including General Curator, Assistant Director, Director, and Chief Operational Officer.  During this time, Mario gained valuable experience in running the day to day operations of both the organizations and the animals and people which comprise them.  Mario has worked with a large variety of species and has been instrumental in developing their husbandry protocols, exhibit design, and nutritional and veterinary needs.  Mario has a variety of experience working with non-profit organizations and has experience securing donors and grants. 

Meri Lawrence

Meri moves to Brunswick County holding a wealth of information on animal behavior and captive animal management.  She has secured a Bachelor's of Science degree in Animal Science from the University of Delaware as well as also holding degrees in Exotic Animal Training and Management, Applied Animal Behavior, and Wildlife Education from Moorpark College.  Through Meri's vast experience in animal training, she has worked with and trained several species of animals.  These specialized skills have taken her to facilities across the country where she managed and cared for educational outreach programs, animal encounters, and animal shows.  Most recently, Meri has been a part of the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, Maryland as well as Roer's Zoofari in Vienna, Virginia.  While in Virginia, Meri was in charge of staffing, animal training, husbandry, and management of the facility.  Meri comes to Safe Haven Animal Discovery Experience with instrumental skills of leading a team and exotic animal management.