FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aug. 6, 2025, Hohenwald, TN — In recognition of the important role elephants play in ecosystems and the global need to ensure their protection, the State of Tennessee has once again declared August “Elephant Awareness Month.” This year’s proclamation also honors a major milestone—The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee’s 30th anniversary.
To commemorate the occasion, Governor Bill Lee, Lewis County Mayor Jonah Keltner, and City of Hohenwald Mayor Danny McKnight signed official proclamations recognizing August as Elephant Awareness Month and acknowledging The Sanctuary’s continued impact in elephant welfare and conservation. The ceremonial signing with Mayor Keltner and Mayor McKnight took place August 5, 2025, at Hohenwald City Hall alongside Sanctuary Staff.
The proclamation notes that “The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee continues to provide elephants with the freedom to live out their lives in a safe haven dedicated to their well-being.” It further states, “The Sanctuary’s commitment to improving the lives of elephants continues to inspire education, advocacy, and conservation around the world.”
In continuation of World Elephant Day and The Sanctuary’s 30th Anniversary, the public is invited to join the celebration at a special Third Saturday event at the Elephant Discovery Center in downtown Hohenwald.
Join us on Saturday, August 16, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM for a full day of fun and festivities, including sweet treats, hands-on activities for all ages, and opportunities to engage with Sanctuary Staff and learn more about elephants.
The Elephant Discovery Center features interactive, self-guided exhibits that teach visitors about the differences between elephant species and the vital role elephants play in their ecosystems. Guests will not see or interact with elephants, as the habitats remain closed to the public. Learn more at: www.elephants.com/discovery-center
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Governor Bill Lee, Mayor Keltner, and Mayor McKnight for their continued partnership and support in helping bring awareness to the importance of elephant welfare—locally and globally.
Photo: Back row, left to right, staff of The Elephant Sanctuary: Anne Zarle, Revenue Processor, Lorenda Rochelle, Donor & VIP Program Manager, Joe Rizzo, Director of Planning and Sustainability, Kathy Duncan, Donor Service Coordinator, Steve Shurter, COO. Front, left to right: Lewis County Mayor Jonah Keltner, City of Hohenwald Mayor Danny McKnight.
About The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee
Located on 3,060 acres in Hohenwald, Tennessee, The Elephant Sanctuary is the nation’s largest natural-habitat refuge developed specifically for Asian and African elephants. Founded in 1995, The Sanctuary has provided 36 elephants with individualized care, the companionship of a herd, and the opportunity to live out their lives in a safe haven dedicated to their well-being. The Sanctuary is licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and has been dually recognized through accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. The Elephant Sanctuary is currently home to 14 elephant residents.
To learn more about The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee, please visit our website at www.elephants.com. We welcome you to stay engaged and observe the elephants via our live-streaming EleCams at www.elephants.com/elecam, and connect with us via social media.
Media Contact:
Ashley Dehnke
Public Relations & Communications Manager
615.975.6226