Ann Parsons to Lead Smith-Gilbert Gardens

Ann Parsons was appointed as the Executive Director of Smith-Gilbert Gardens, the city’s 16 acre botanical garden.

Parsons will be responsible for the overall leadership of the Gardens, serving as the liaison with the SGG Foundation, coordinating fundraising activities, and developing a vision for future growth. She will coordinate annual activities related to the Strategic Plan and help implement the long range Master Plan.

Parsons most recently served as Director of The Kampong in Coconut Grove, Florida, one of five gardens of the National Tropical Botanical Gardens. She also held positions at the Norfolk Botanical Garden in Virginia and Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Florida.

Her resume includes teaching continuing education workshops as well as graduate level college courses. She holds Bachelors and Masters Degrees from Virginia Tech and is a published author. 

“We are excited about the potential for growth and development of our Gardens that Ann represents,” said City Manager Steve Kennedy. “She has impressive experience overseeing all aspects of garden operations, making her perfectly suited for a leadership role at Smith-Gilbert.”