Oklahoma Primate Sanctuary Director, Tim Ajax, Honored with Prestigious Global Carole Noon Award

Washington, D.C. / Newcastle, Oklahoma — The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries (GFAS) has announced Tim Ajax, Sanctuary Director of Oklahoma Primate Sanctuary (OPS), as the recipient of the 2025 Carole Noon Award for Sanctuary Excellence. Selected from among more than 200 accredited sanctuaries worldwide, this distinguished global award recognizes individuals who demonstrate visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and exceptional commitment to the humane and ethical care of animals.

Named in memory of Dr. Carole Noon, a trailblazing advocate for chimpanzees and an innovative sanctuary pioneer, the Carole Noon Award celebrates those who embody her legacy of compassion, courage, and excellence in animal welfare.

“Tim Ajax’s lifelong dedication to the wellbeing of primates and his leadership at Oklahoma Primate Sanctuary reflect the very best of what it means to be a sanctuary professional,” said Valerie Taylor, Executive Director of GFAS. “His work exemplifies the GFAS philosophy of vision, dedication, and excellence in animal care.”

With nearly four decades in sanctuary and wildlife rehabilitation, Ajax has been instrumental in elevating standards of care for non-human primates. Under his direction, OPS has expanded its facilities, strengthened partnerships with veterinarians and conservation groups, and remained a model of ethical, sustainable sanctuary management. His tireless commitment continues to shape the future of primate care and advocacy.

“It is a profound honor to receive an award named for someone as inspiring as Dr. Carole Noon,” Ajax said. “This recognition truly belongs to the entire OPS team—past and present—who dedicate their hearts every day to giving primates the respect, care, and peace they deserve.”

OPS Executive Director Tonnie Dosser shared, “We are deeply proud to see Tim recognized with this global honor. His lifelong dedication to animal welfare and his leadership have strengthened OPS in countless ways. I am honored to work alongside and learn from him every day.”

The GFAS Board of Directors also presented its 2025 Outstanding Sanctuary Awards to The Elephant Sanctuary (Tennessee), Full Circle Farm Sanctuary (Georgia), Lwiro Primate Rehabilitation Centre (DRC Congo), and The Flicka Foundation (U.K.) for excellence in animal care, ethics, and organizational leadership. To learn more about the 2025 award recipients, visit www.sanctuaryfederation.org.

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About Oklahoma Primate Sanctuary

Oklahoma Primate Sanctuary (OPS) provides lifelong care to monkeys retired from research, the pet trade, and other human use. Verified by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries, OPS is dedicated to creating a safe, enriched, and compassionate environment for every resident while advancing awareness, advocacy, and ethical standards for primate welfare.

For more information, visit www.okprimates.org or follow @okprimates on social media.

Media Contact: Tonnie Dosser, Executive Director Oklahoma Primate Sanctuary tdosser@okprimates.org