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Staff

Administration

  • Executive Director — Drake Fowler — 828-665-2492 x. 206
  • Chief of Staff — Amy Owenby — 828-665-2492 x. 213
  • Receptionist — Peggy Eavenson — 828-665-2492 x. 205

Business and Financial Services

  • Chief Financial Officer / Chief Operations Officer  — Stephanie Lee — 828-665-2492 x. 214
  • Information Technology Services — 828-665-2492 x. 202

Campus Police

  • Chief of Police — Emily Brahy — 828-779-8622

Development

  • Director of Development — Jodi John Pippin — 828-665-2492 x. 221
  • Major Gifts Officer — Winnie Hough — 828-665-2492 x. 210
  • Corporate and Foundation Relations Manager — Erin Adams — 828-665-2492 x. 225
  • Donor Relations Manager — Valerie Wiseman — 828-665-2492 x. 300
  • Membership Manager 
  • Membership Services & Technology Coordinator — Julianna Prather — 828-665-2492 x. 324
  • Membership Coordinator — Tara Grunwald — 828-665-2492 x. 322

Education

  • Director of Education — Jonathan Marchal — 828-665-2492 x. 627

Facility Management and Planning

  • Facilities Manager — Brad Shore — 828-665-2492 x. 488

Guest Experience & Services

  • Guest Experience Manager –Katie Havlik  — 828-665-2492 x. 235
  • Exhibit Curator — Jeannie Regan — 828-203-6625 x. 308
  • Events Supervisor – Breanna Glover — 828-665-2492 x. 255
  • Retail Manager / Buyer — Kacey Cramer — 828-665-2492 x. 306

Horticulture and Landscape Exhibits

  • Director of Horticulture — Mac Franklin — 828-665-2492 x. 490
  • Bonsai Curator — Arthur Joura — 828-665-2492 x. 561
  • Production Greenhouse Manager — Beth Ross — 828-665-2492 x. 562
  • National Native Azalea Collection Curator — Carson Ellis — 828-412-8556 x. 403
  • Formal Gardens Curator — Julie Guy — 828-412-8548 x 489

Human Resources

  • Human Resources Manager  — Brooke Ledford — 828-665-2492 x. 207
  • Volunteer Coordinator — Kelly Smith — 828-665-2492 x. 333

Marketing & Public Relations

  • Manager — Brian Postelle — 828-665-2492 x. 204
  • Content Specialist — Abby Cantrell — 828-567-3164 x. 208

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my membership tax-deductible?

Yes, a portion of your membership dues is tax-deductible. You will receive a receipt indicating the tax-deductible amount.

When will I receive my membership card?

You will receive a digital card immediately via email. Physical cards are mailed within 2-3 weeks of joining.

Can I bring different guests each time?

With Household level and above, you receive admission for two cardholders and children under 18.

Does my membership cover special events like Winter Lights?

Members receive discounts on Winter Lights tickets. Rhododendron and above members also receive a complimentary Members Night at Winter Lights.

What is the reciprocal admission program?

All membership levels include reciprocal admissions through the American Horticultural Society, offering special admission privileges and discounts at 360+ gardens throughout North America, plus admission to the N.C. Zoo.