A 30-year cultural attractions veteran is set to be the next president of the foundations that oversee the Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park.
Michelle Furrer, director for Como Park Zoo and Conservatory in Saint Paul, Minnesota, was announced as the next president and CEO of the two downtown Oklahoma City attractions following a four-month national search led by Phillips Oppenheim.
She is set to start her new job on March 1, 2025, and replaces Maureen Heffernan, who moved to Oklahoma City from Maine in 2011 to oversee the rebirth of the Myriad Gardens and opening of Scissortail Park.
Larry Nichols, board chairman of the foundations, said in a news release that directors are excited about the future of the two attractions under Furrer. Furrer was praised for her work at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, starting in 2006 as its first-ever marketing manager before being promoted to director in 2009.
During her tenure at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, Furrer managed budgets, educational programming and high-impact project management for exhibits such as Gorilla Forest, Como Harbor, The Ordway Gardens and Centennial Garden. Her other listed accomplishments include playing a “pivotal role” in increasing earned revenue and enhancing visitor experiences for the more than 100-year-old institution.
“With her exceptional leadership experience, commitment to our mission, and deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in our sector, we are confident that Michelle will guide us toward an even greater impact,” Nichols said. “We look forward to the Garden’s and Park’s continued growth and success under her vision and direction.”
Furrer serves on the Scholarship Committee for the American Public Garden Association and the Honors & Awards Committee for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Furrer’s biography reports her interest in the cultural attractions industry began in high school, where she cultivated her passion for nature while working at ValleyFair Amusement Park and the Ted Paul Theater.
She later advanced to become marketing and public relations manager at Mid-America Festivals, where she oversaw events including the Minnesota Renaissance Festival and the Halloween Trail of Terror. She also oversaw marketing at Underwater Adventures Aquarium at the Mall of America.
“I am truly honored and excited to join the Myriad Gardens Foundation and Scissortail Park Foundation as President and CEO,” Furrer said. “These two remarkable urban green spaces are essential to the heart of Oklahoma City, providing vibrant connections to nature, culture, and community.”
