Aipperspach to step down from Great Ape Trust, join board of directors

Des Moines, Iowa – June 11, 2010 – The operations director of Great Ape Trust, Jim Aipperspach, will resign later this month and join the board of directors of the Des Moines-based scientific research organization. Aipperspach’s resignation will be effective June 30 to be followed by his appointment to the board of directors July 1.

“Jim’s integrity, dedication and wisdom have provided this institution with invaluable leadership for nearly five years,” said Great Ape Trust Founder and Chair, Ted Townsend. “We are all exceedingly grateful for his guidance, values, style and friendship. I am certain his significant impact on our future will continue as a board member.”

Aipperspach assumed the operational leadership of Great Ape Trust in October 2005. As director of operations, he coordinated and supervised all non-scientific responsibilities: accounting, administration, communications, fund-raising, grounds and maintenance, human resources and public safety.

“Great Ape Trust has provided some of the most rewarding experiences in my professional career,” said Aipperspach. “While I’ll miss the privilege of working with such dedicated people, I look forward, as a board member, to contributing my efforts to the mission of this important organization.”

Aipperspach will be added to the Great Ape Trust board of directors that includes Margo Blumenthal, West Des Moines; Lynda Chase, Des Moines; Suku Radia, West Des Moines; Ted Townsend, Urbandale and Connie Wimer, Des Moines.

William M. Fields, director of scientific research at Great Ape Trust, is now responsible for those operations within the organization previously directed by Aipperspach.