Book Talk: In the Company of Pandas with Dr. Brandie Smith
Dr. Brandie Smith in conversation with Dana Bash
Join Dr. Brandie Smith, John and Adrienne Mars Director of the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, as she sits down with Dana Bash, CNN's chief political correspondent, for a special conversation celebrating her new book, In the Company of Pandas: My Life with the World’s Favorite Bear.
What is it about giant pandas that makes them nearly impossible to resist? Drawing on decades of experience caring for and conserving giant pandas, Smith will take audiences behind the scenes of one of the world’s most beloved — and fascinating — species. She’ll share stories of the generations of pandas that have called the Smithsonian’s National Zoo home, from raising cubs and navigating their distinctive personalities to the science, international collaboration and “panda diplomacy” that have shaped efforts to save the species.
All proceeds support the Smithsonian’s giant panda conservation program.
The conversation will explore surprising truths about panda biology and behavior, the challenges of breeding and caring for giant pandas, and the role zoos and conservation science have played in helping bring the species back from the brink of extinction. Smith will also share personal stories from a career spent in the company of pandas and reflect on what these remarkable animals have taught her about conservation — and about ourselves.
Signed copies of In the Company of Pandas can be preordered with your ticket. Copies of the book can also be purchased at the Zoo’s gift shop before and after the program.
Schedule
6:30–7 p.m. — Doors open; books available for purchase
7–7:30 p.m. — Book talk and conversation
7:30–7:50 p.m. — Audience Q&A
7:50–8:30 p.m. — Reception, book sales and personalization
8:30 p.m. — Event concludes
About the Moderator
The conversation will be moderated by Dana Bash, CNN’s award-winning chief political correspondent, anchor of Inside Politics with Dana Bash and co-anchor of State of the Union. Bash’s CNN series Being… explores the personal stories behind individuals shaping American policy, politics and culture. Her digital series Badass Women of Washington profiles women from different backgrounds and generations who have broken barriers on their paths to leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Parking is available, but parking passes are not included with event admission. If you plan to drive and park at the Zoo, Special Event Parking is $30 when purchased ahead of time and $40 on the day of the event.
- Drivers should plan to enter through the main vehicle entrance at 3001 Connecticut Ave, NW.
- Vehicle and pedestrian gates on Connecticut Ave will open at 6 p.m. for this event.
- Daytime Parking Passes will not be honored for this event.
- Members cannot use their daily parking benefits for this after-hours event.
Zoo members receive exclusive benefits for this event, including:
- 15% off retail: Members are able to purchase discounted signed copies of In the Company of Pandas online with their event tickets. Signed copies are available exclusively to event attendees and can be picked up at the Visitor Center during the event.
Please note that daytime member parking benefits cannot be used for special events. Event parking must be purchased separately.
Not a member yet? Become a Zoo member to enjoy these benefits and support the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute.
Per our terms of sale, all ticket sales are nonrefundable.
However, if you’re unable to attend, you may choose to donate your ticket back to the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute. Donated tickets are made available for others to purchase, allowing your original purchase to continue supporting the Zoo's conservation mission. To use this option, please contact [email protected].