Elizabeth Newman Wilds Executive Director - Cornell Botanic Gardens

Cornell Botanic Gardens is an organization whose mission is inspiring people through cultivation, conservation, and education to understand, appreciate, and nurture plants and the cultures they sustain. Advancing this mission helps realize a vision: a world in which the interdependence of biological and cultural diversity is respected, sustained, and celebrated. As a living museum, its cultivated gardens, arboretum, and natural areas serve as outdoor classrooms for instruction across Cornell University's colleges and host research addressing global problems. It employs 40-45 staff members, has 180 active volunteers, and an annual operating budget of $4.1 million.

Established 100 years ago by Cornell University's Board of Trustees, the gardens span 3,800 acres, including specialty gardens, diverse collections, and natural areas. It welcomes over 100,000 visitors annually and serves nearly 15,000 participants in education programs, serving as a valuable asset to Cornell University and local communities.

The gardens have adopted a strategic plan for 2025-2030 with goals to:

• Conserve biological and cultural diversity by building relationships and prioritizing rare plants.
• Lead in climate resilience through innovative practices and climate-forward gardens.
• Foster interconnectedness of plants, ecosystems, and human health by creating inclusive environments.
• Elevate its role as a university asset through learning and research opportunities.

Cornell Botanic Gardens is part of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), which focuses on purpose-driven science to tackle global challenges through research, education, and outreach.

The Executive Director advances the vision for Cornell Botanic Gardens by implementing the strategic plan, collaborating with university leaders, and serving as the primary spokesperson. Responsibilities include integrating the gardens into university programs, representing it in national and international sectors, and leading staff and volunteers.

Required qualifications include a Ph.D. in a relevant field, 5+ years in senior leadership, and skills in strategic vision, interpersonal relations, fundraising, and more. The role offers a salary range of $176,486.00 - $215,705.00.

To apply, submit a resume/CV and cover letter. Search committee review begins August 15, 2025.