GREEN BAY (WLUK) — After 15 years, the president and CEO of Green Bay Botanical Garden says she will retire. Susan Garot says she will step down in late spring of 2024.
“The timing is right to hand off this nonprofit to the next generation leader, who will undoubtedly take the Garden to even greater heights,” Garot wrote.
The garden grew and thrived under her leadership. Her achievements include:
- Growing the Garden from about 12 acres to more than 25 developed acres.
- Growing Garden assets from $4 million to over $30 million, which includes increasing the endowment by nearly five times its size.
- Growing Garden membership from 1,600 to nearly 6,000 members.
- Establishing the Garden as one of the top places to visit in Green Bay.
“The accomplishment that is nearest and dearest to my heart was helping raise $13.3 million to expand the children’s garden from half of an acre to two and a half acres,” Garot wrote. “It brought me a lot of joy to see so many come out to celebrate the Carol & Bruce Bell Children’s Garden during our recent ribbon cutting. Seeing children and people of all ages have so much joy while interacting with nature made everyone smile. It’s an experience that will keep them coming back.”
A national search for Garot’s successor will begin in late fall, with details to be announced in November. Garot will continue to lead the Garden throughout the search for her successor and will assist with the transition to the new president and CEO.
