Memphis, TN – June 12, 2024 — The Memphis Botanic Garden (MBG) today announced the appointment of its new Executive Director, MaryLynn Mack, following a nationwide search. Mack has most recently worked as the Chief Operating Officer at South Coast Botanic Garden (Palos Verdes, California) since 2019 in addition to serving as a Presidental-appointed Board Member of the Institute of Museum and Library Services and is the Past President and a current Board Member of the American Public Gardens Association (APGA), whose mission is to champion and advance public gardens as leaders, advocates, and innovators in the conservation and appreciation of plants. She is also the founding chair of APGA’s IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Accessibility) Committee. Previous to her role as COO at South Coast Botanic Garden, Mack served in numerous roles at the Desert Botanical Garden (Phoenix, Arizona), including their Deputy Director/Director of Operations.
Mack will begin her tenure as Executive Director on August 19, 2024. Michael Allen, MBG’s current Executive Director announced his retirement in February after 7 ½ years of service, and his final day at the Garden is June 30, 2024. Mary-Helen Butler, MBG’s Assistant Executive Director, will serve as Interim Executive Director until MaryLynn starts in August.
“We are thrilled to welcome MaryLynn to not only the Memphis Botanic Garden but also to the Memphis community. Her commitment to innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity is clear; she is the perfect leader to build on the Garden’s recent momentum towards modernization and horticultural excellence,” said David Scully, MBG’s Board President. “MaryLynn will not only advance the Garden but will be an asset to the city as a dedicated non-profit leader striving to foster connections within the community she serves.”
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About Memphis Botanic Garden
The Memphis Botanic Garden is a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to being an exemplary center for horticulture and environmental enrichment. Serving over 40,000 school-aged children annually, and hosting 260,000 visitors each year, Memphis Botanic Garden strives to enhance lives by connecting people with nature, increasing awareness and appreciation of our environment.
