ELISE DUBUISSON

Gorilla Caregiver / Research Assistant

Elise found her passion for learning and teaching others about wildlife early on. Growing up in France then returning to California, her passion for animals continued to grow. She always hoped to make a contribution in the field of animal care and conservation, and before coming to The Gorilla Foundation worked with a variety of marine animals at SEACAMP in San Diego, and as a playgroup leader at a local dog daycare. Elise received degrees in Psychology and Social Science and is currently enrolled at San Francisco State University working towards a degree in Biology with a concentration in Zoology.  

Elise first remembers reading about Koko in National Geographic Magazine at a young age, and so was thrilled when she discovered the opportunity to work as a Gorilla Produce Volunteer while completing her degree. When subsequently offered a position as a Gorilla Caregiver/Researcher she accepted the offer immediately. She looks forward to building valuable relationships with both gorillas, Koko and Ndume, and realizes the importance of this work, not only for the welfare of these two gorilla ambassadors, but also for the greater good of their species.