Membership questions?
Contact us at speaks@dsbg.org
or (704) 825-4490 ext. 103.
Executive Leadership
John Searby
Executive Director
searby@dsbg.org
John Searby – Executive Director
Hi, my name is John Searby. I am responsible for the overall leadership of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden & Catawba Riverkeeper and serve each as their primary visionary, strategic leader, and relationship developer. I lead a senior management staff responsible for the joint operation of both organizations that includes a Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrative Officer charged with developing administrative economies of scale, joint programming, and enhanced missional impact for two of the Charlotte region’s most important environmental non-profits.
My passion for the outdoors influences everything I do. I grew up in Central Illinois where my love of nature began while bird hunting with my grandfather. Inspired by the mountains of East Tennessee where I attended college, I have developed a love for hiking, trail running, mountain biking, kayaking, and camping that finds me spending as much time outside as possible.
My experience has led me to bring a diverse background in coaching, athletic administration, fundraising, design, marketing, sponsorship planning, and sales management to my work. I leverage these experiences to build organizations that inspire a love of nature and its beauty through unforgettable experiences to motivate the public to join in the work of preserving, protecting, and restoring our region’s vital natural resources.
I attended Milligan University in Johnson City, TN, where I was a 3-year starter and captain of the basketball team. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in History and English from Milligan and a Master’s Degree in English from Tennessee Tech University. After college, I embarked on a ten-year basketball coaching journey at Gardner-Webb University, Tennessee Tech University, Lincoln Christian University, and Auburn University before working in athletic administration at Bradley University. Following my time in athletics, I worked in the business world for XOS Digital, Downstream Design, and Adams Outdoor Advertising. In April, 2019 I became the Executive Director of Catawba Riverkeeper and assumed that same role with Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in March, 2023.
I currently reside just minutes from Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden on the banks of the South Fork River in Belmont, NC with my wife, Jessi, and two children, Jack (17) and Josie (14). I also serve the Charlotte region as the President of the Catawba-Wateree Relicensing Coalition, I am a member of the Gaston County Travel & Tourism Board of Advisors, a member of the Pharr Family YMCA Board of Advisors, and serve as Chairman of the South Fork Collective.
Tracy Smith
Chief of Staff
smith@dsbg.org
Tracy Smith - Chief Administrative Officer
Hi! My name is Tracy Smith, and I am the Deputy Director for Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. I am a native of North Carolina, growing up in Waxhaw, and eventually moving to Belmont in 2008 with my husband and our daughter. I received my undergraduate degree in liberal studies from the University of North Carolina, Greensboro and a master’s degree in human resources from Western Carolina University…go Catamounts!
I have commuted to Charlotte for work for over 25 years so when the opportunity became available to become part of the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden team, I didn’t hesitate. As a resident of Belmont, I was very familiar with the beauty of the Garden and its offerings and knew that I would feel right at home. Working in the same town where I live was important to me, it’s a way of giving back to my community.
Prior to my current role, I served as the Human Resources manager for Johnson & Wales University as well as the Director of Human Resources for the United Way of Central Carolinas. While most of my experience is directly related to Human Resources, I have always had a knack for all business functions such as finance, risk management, compliance, and project planning and oversight. This position allows me the opportunity to do all of that and more.
I enjoy working with this amazing team and appreciating the nature and beauty of the Garden, knowing not to take any of it for granted as I feel so fortunate to be part of the team.
Horticulture
Jason Bonham
Director of Horticulture
bonham@dsbg.org
Jason Bonham - Director of Horticulture
My job here at the Garden encompasses maintaining and enhancing the outdoor gardens. That involves everything from caring for the gardens extensive plant collections to making sure the fountains are up and running. My main task though is to help support the horticulture staff so that they can continue to do the amazing work that they were doing before I arrived.
The best part of my job here at the Garden is that every day there is something new and exciting. It may be building straw bale mazes one day and learning how to hang holiday lights the next. One of my favorite parts of the garden is the allee of Burr Oaks, Quercus macrocarpa, that line the front entrance. They have just dropped their large acorns that are topped with a cupule or cap that is covered in shaggy scales.
Karen Kottkamp
Curator
kottkamp@dsbg.org
Karen Kottkamp - Curator
Hi! My name is Karen Kottkamp, and since early 2022, I’ve had the honor of being the Garden Curator. As Curator, I’m responsible for keeping track of, monitoring the health, and labeling the plants in the garden.
Born and raised in Indianapolis, I received a BA in Psychology from Purdue University (IUPUI). The Charlotte area has been my home for the last 30 years and I love life in the Carolinas!
Plants are my passion and as a life-long learner, I’m both thrilled and humbled to work in an environment where I learn new things every day. Speaking of learning, I’m a North Carolina Certified Plant Professional and a NC Master Gardener. I earned a certificate in Native Plant Studies from UNCC and am also certified in Landscape Design.
When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, hiking, riding my bike and traveling- both near and far. I’m an avid birdwatcher and native plant enthusiast and appreciate the connection between the two. It’s all connected, including us. Humans are not separate from nature, we’re part of it. I look forward to seeing you in the garden. Cheers!
Lindsey Bargar
Garden Horticulturist Lead – Formal Gardens
bargar@dsbg.org
Lindsey Bargar, Garden Horticulturist Lead - Formal Gardens
Hi, I’m Lindsey Bargar, the Garden Horticulturist Lead of the Formal Gardens at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
I didn’t start my career in horticulture right away. With a degree in commercial photography, my journey into the world of plants began in 2020. Since then, I’ve gained experience working on flower farms, in florist shops, and at plant nurseries. I even had a short stint at a hydroponic farm. I also took horticulture classes at Trident Tech in Charleston before returning to my hometown of Rock Hill and joining the team at DSBG.
In my role here, I maintain and design the formal gardens. This involves basic tasks like weeding and mulching, as well as designing, planting, and ensuring the gardens look their best. My expertise is primarily with ornamental annuals and perennials, though I’m growing more confident with woody shrubs and trees. Flowers are my true passion.
What I enjoy most about working at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is the encouraging and positive work environment. My team looks out for each other, and we can always count on each other for help with projects. It’s a great balance of teamwork and independent work. I appreciate the trust and time we’re given to make our spaces beautiful.
Outside of work, I love gardening at home, helping friends with their gardens, and I’m an avid collector of houseplants!
Katherine Baxter
Garden Horticulturist Lead – Lost Hollow Children’s Garden
baxter@dsbg.org
Katherine Baxter - Garden Horticulturist Lead - Lost Hollow Children's Garden
Hello, I’m Katherine and I’m the Garden Horticulturist Lead for Lost Hollow: The Kimbrell Children’s Garden! I’m from the Triad of North Carolina and I went to school for Environmental & Sustainability Studies at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. During my studies, my passion for gardening was sparked when I became involved in the university community garden and interned at The Edible Schoolyard in Greensboro.
After graduating from UNCG, I worked as an environmental educator at the NC coast and for NC State Parks. I’ve learned how to help my community connect with nature through completing my NC Environmental Education Certification. My favorite spot in the garden is The Sunken Pond in Lost Hollow – this beautiful pond provides habitat for aquatic turtles, snakes, fish, birds, and insects!
Chloe Linton
Horticulturalist & Williamson Conservatory Lead
linton@dsbg.org
Chloe Linton - Horticulturist and Williamson Conservatory Manager
Cassy Hallman
Conservation Ecologist
hallman@dsbg.org
Cassy Hallman - Conservation Ecologist
Dylan Wrubel
Horticulture Operations Specialist
wrubel@dsbg.org
Dylan Wrubel - Horticulture
Advancement, Development, & Communications
Diana Knudsen
Vice President of Advancement & Communications
knudsen@dsbg.org
Diana Knudson - Vice President of Advancement and Communications
My name is Diana Knudsen and I serve as Vice President of Advancement and Communications for Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden and Catawba Riverkeeper. I work to raise funds for and grow the membership of both organizations, as well as directing marketing activities.
I began working at the Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation in 2012 after graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Kenan-Flagler Business School with a concentration in Marketing. In 2024, my role expanded to include Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in addition to Catawba Riverkeeper. I am a native of Charlotte where I live with my husband and two children. My love for the river and nature and desire to protect it comes from spending time at my grandparents’ home on Lake Wylie.
Brittney Speaks
Director of Development
speaks@dsbg.org
Brittney Speaks -Director of Development
Hi! My name is Brittney Speaks and I am the Director of Development at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. I am a native to Gaston County and grew up in McAdenville, better known as “Christmas Town, USA.” I graduated from Ashbrook Highschool and now reside with my family just over the state line in Clover, SC.
With 12+ years in the hospitality and customer service industry, I have always enjoyed helping and serving others, making connections, and building relationships with people. My position at the Garden allows me the privilege of getting to know our members and visitors, providing them with information about the Garden and membership, and the opportunity to connect with both our community and nature. Ensuring that every member and visitor feels that they are taken care of and informed means the most to me!
When I was in elementary school, we took a field trip to The Garden, and I was amazed and captivated by its beauty. Remembering the fun of running under the tunnel fountain and the magnificent view of the stained-glass dome in the Visitors Pavillion, to now being able to work in the community I grew up in is truly special. My favorite part of my job is the people I get to meet, the longtime members who have been with DSBG since the very beginning, and watching others create long lasting memories here at The Garden.
My favorite quote from Daniel Stowe is this, “I believe it is my duty as a preservationist to safeguard open spaces rather than create congestion and development.” Safeguarding these open spaces and the plants and wildlife within them is a mission statement that I take to heart and makes working here more than just a job!
Erin Fisher
Membership Manager
fisher@dsbg.org
Erin Fisher - Membership Manager
Caitlin Conner
Marketing & Communications Manager
brug@dsbg.org
Caitlin Conner, Marketing and Communications Manager
Hi! My name is Caitlin Conner and I am the Marketing and Communications Manager at DSBG. I may have just moved to North Carolina in September of 2024, but the minute I stepped foot in the Garden for the first time, it felt like home. I love that I get to appreciate and enjoy all the wonderful features of the Garden every day from hikes or runs on the trails to attending community events to grabbing a cup of coffee from the Trailhead Store to wandering the Garden itself and taking in all its beauty. Getting to experience and witness the magic of the Garden firsthand makes my job of sharing these amazing opportunities with the community so exciting and rewarding.
I earned my Bachelor’s of Arts in English and Communication from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside and began my career there as a marketing coordinator. Since then, I have worked in marketing and communications for nearly a decade, with a focus in higher education. As I planned my move to North Carolina, I was excited for the chance to work at DSBG, as this position merges some of my biggest personal and professional passions in life: spending time outdoors, creativity, and helping others get out and explore nature.
Having recently moved to the Charlotte area with my husband and our two dogs, we love getting out and discovering everything this amazing area has to offer, such as hiking trails, breweries, live music, and local restaurants. In my free time, I love hiking, biking, rollerblading, reading, writing, and thrifting.
Education and Programming
Morgan Long
Education Director
long@dsbg.org
Morgan Long – Education Director
Hello! My name is Morgan Long. As Education Director, I provide senior leadership and strategic direction for all educational programming at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden and Catawba Riverkeeper. My role is to ensure that educational programming engages and inspires young people and adults alike to preserve, protect, and restore the natural resources of our region. Through a collaboration, both Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden and Catawba Riverkeeper leverage the resources of one another to deliver high quality, engaging environmental education programming to residents throughout the Charlotte region and it is my job to coordinate those efforts.
I am a Charlotte native that was raised just across the river, in Mount Holly. I earned a B.S. in Earth and Environmental Science from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. I have worked throughout New England as an Environmental Educator with the nonprofit Nature’s Classroom. From Maine to North Carolina, I have taught in a variety of ecosystems along the East Coast.
In my free time, I enjoy hiking, foraging, and crafting throughout the woodlands of the Carolinas!
Jennings Storie
Education Manager
storie@dsbg.org
Jennings Storie - Education Manager
Hi, I’m Jennings Storie, a North Carolinian through and through. My roots are deeply embedded in the landscapes around Lake Norman, where my childhood was a tapestry of kayaking adventures and explorations. Currently calling Denver home, I share my life’s journey with my husband.
In 2022, I proudly graduated from Montreat College with a major in Education and a dual minor in Outdoor Education and Environmental Science. Post-graduation, I embarked on a fulfilling path, initially as a Pre-K educator and a member of the Animal Care department at the Schiele Museum in Gastonia. For the past three years, I was a part of the Catawba Riverkeeper team, transitioning from a kayak tech role to an educator over the last two summers. This journey has been an incredible opportunity to contribute to positive outdoor learning experiences for all age groups.
I am excited to bring those experiences to my role as part of the collaboration with Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden and Catawba Riverkeeper. The prospect of continuing to facilitate enriching outdoor learning experiences fills me with excitement and purpose.
Beyond work, my heart finds joy in camping escapades, volunteering with animals, and scouring the NC coast for elusive shark teeth. Join me on this journey of exploration and education as we traverse the beauty of nature together!
Ceci Kammire
Volunteer Coordinator
kammire@dsbg.org
Ceci Kammire - Volunteer Coordinator
My name is Ceci Kammire and I am the Volunteer Coordinator at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
Growing up on a farm in Lexington, North Carolina, I have always loved spending time outdoors and exploring the unique ecosystems found across the Carolinas. In 2021 I received my B.A. in Studio Art and Environmental Studies from Wake Forest University, and I recently earned my Master’s in Natural Resources from Virginia Tech University. Prior to joining the team at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, I worked as the Volunteer Assistant with Catawba Riverkeeper, which opened my eyes to the powerful ways in which volunteer and community science programs can protect and restore our shared environments.
In my role, I am responsible for overseeing ongoing volunteer recruitment, training, management, and providing enriching opportunities for volunteers. I am grateful to work for such a beautiful place that fosters environmental stewardship by offering the community a variety of hands-on opportunities to engage with nature. I also love that I learn something new every day from our passionate staff and dedicated volunteers.
In my free time I love hiking, painting, nature photography, and browsing in antique stores.
Rachel Andrea
Recreation Manager
andrea@dsbg.org
Rachel Andrea - Recreation Manager
Hi, I’m Rachel Andrea, the Recreation Manager at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
I grew up in Pasadena, Maryland, on the Magothy River, where I spent my childhood crabbing and swimming in the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. After attending college in Virginia, my husband and I moved to Charlotte, NC, and then to Cramerton, NC.
My career in recreation began with Cramerton Parks and Recreation, where I worked in Athletics and later transitioned to Special Events and Programming. There, I helped run large community events like group paddles and celebrating the outdoors. I also enjoyed running summer camps and programs such as outdoor yoga and nature explorer camps. At the Garden, my primary responsibilities include assisting the Outdoor Programs Director in creating fun and memorable outdoor experiences, including 5Ks, events, and helping visitors find beauty in spending time outdoors.
What I enjoy most about working at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is the opportunity to work in such a unique and beautiful place with so many spaces for exploration.
Outside of my work at the Garden, I enjoy volunteering with a local Boy Scouts Troop/Pack, nature walks with my family, hiking, and paddling on the river. I also love getting my hands dirty in the garden and taking pictures of the animals and birds that visit my yard and neighborhood.
Events
Philip Dodds
Events Sales Director
dodds@dsbg.org
Philip Dodds - Events Sales Director
Hello, my name is Philip Dodds, and I am the Events Manager at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. I was born in the Cotswolds, England, an area of outstanding natural beauty, and have always preferred to be outside. My family moved to Gaston County in 2002. For the last 19 years, I was the Membership Director for Carmel Country Club in Charlotte. Before that, I worked on both sides of the pond, predominantly in sales and marketing roles within the hospitality industry.
When the opportunity to work at DSBG presented itself, I jumped at it for many reasons. I have visited the Garden many times over the years and have always loved the natural beauty of the Garden and what it represents and does for the local community. I enjoy gardening and being outdoors. I consider myself a local, even though I have a funny accent, and both our boys live locally.
I am excited to work with an enthusiastic team of professionals and making your experience at the Garden the best for you and your family. Additionally, I aim to attract visitors to enjoy not just the Gardens, but also to discover how the different areas, both indoor and outdoor, can be used for many different celebrations that you may not be aware of!
Monica Doolan
Private Events Manager
doolan@dsbg.org
Monica Doolan, Private Events Manager
Hello! My name is Monica Doolan and I am the Private Events Manager here at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. I have spent 17 years of my life living in Mariposa, California (a rural mountain community located 45 minutes from Yosemite National Park). Passion and gratitude for natural beauty has been instilled in me after a childhood spent hiking the Eastern Sierra and swimming the Merced River. Once my husband and I relocated to Belmont in 2014, the first item on our list was to find our favorite places of natural beauty and we discovered Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden! The garden is our family’s happy place and we have filled our own yard at home with flora that we have discovered while walking the brick paths here.
I have appreciated the garden as a member for 10 years and am now so thrilled to be a part of such a dedicated, hard-working team. I bring with me 14 years of customer service and hospitality experience. The highlight of working here is being able to introduce guests to the garden for the very first time and to witness magical weddings at a venue unlike any other!
Kate Graham
Public Events Manager
graham@dsbg.org
Kate Graham - Visitor Services Lead
My name is Kate Graham, and I am the Public Events Manager at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. If you’ve been a frequent visitor to the Garden in the past few years, you’ve likely spoken with me at the front desk. After working various roles in customer service throughout my adult life, from brick-and-mortar retail to digital assistance, I am incredibly grateful to share the front desk in our gorgeous Visitor’s Pavilion with such a dedicated and insightful team of staff and volunteers, each of whom support and teach me day by day.
I was born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina but now reside in Lake Wylie, South Carolina. I am certified in Broadcast Media and Communications from the Connecticut School of Broadcasting branch in Charlotte.
My greatest passion in life is for storytelling, and the often unnoticed shapes it takes— be it in the grade-school novel that inspired you to read, the art and architecture that preserves a culture in a moment in time, or the experiences we spend our lives recording. The greenery, waterways and footpaths surrounding our ever-growing garden tell stories from before we placed the first brick to the lasting memories being created between visitors every year, and they will save our stories long after. I am honored to play even the smallest role in the conservation of that story.
When I’m not at the garden, I enjoy spending time with my partner and two mischievous cats, writing, cooking, and practicing photo editing & graphic design.
Retail & Guest Services
Chad Berney
Trailhead Store Manager
berney@dsbg.org
Chad Berney - Retail Manager
Hi, my name is Chad Berney and I am the Trailhead Store Manager at DSBG. I hail from the great state of Alabama where I grew up playing sports and learning the guitar. I graduated from the University of Alabama majoring in Communications which led me to working in a recording studio shortly in Atlanta before moving to Virginia. There I ran a retail store specializing in musical instruments and helping students excel in music. After a venture into the corporate world working my way forward at GEICO, my family moved to Belmont. Here I discovered the great folks at the Catawba Riverkeeper organization. The work and connection that they share with Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden has been the perfect fit for me and my family.
In my role at DSBG, I manage the Trailhead Store, where we serve coffee, wine, beer, N/A beverages, and snacks, as well as supporting and planning events on DSBG’s beautiful trails. Our cozy coffee shop is the perfect spot to take in just some of the beauty that the garden has to offer. I make it a point to instill in my staff that we are all ‘experience ambassadors’ and we strive to make each visit from our guests a delightful and memorable adventure.
My favorite part of working at DSBG? I enjoy the staff that we work with every day. Each of us plays such a valuable singular role but at the same time we are a cohesive team. We all come together to help enhance the visitor experience and it’s a rewarding thing to see.
I’ll admit that I’m not the gardener that you’re looking for, but I appreciate the majestic beauty across the 380+ acres that we have before us. In my spare time I enjoy traveling and exploring new things, hiking, and cooking when I can. Music still plays an important role in my life, and I look forward to the musical events that we host in the garden.
Holly Frey
Guest Services and Garden Store Manager
frey@dsbg.org
Holly Frey - Guest Services and Garden Store Manager
Administration
Vanessa Covington
Human Resources Manager
covington@dsbg.org
Vanessa Covington – Director of Operations
I graduated from Bradley University with a degree in communications. I live in Charlotte with my husband and two children. I enjoy exploring near and far communities, kayaking, hiking, and camping.
Shelly Staton
Director of Finance
staton@dsbg.org
Shelly Staton – Accountant
Hi, I’m Shelly Staton, the Accountant at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
My interest in the finance industry began at the early age of 18 when I started working in banking. This interest grew into a passion, leading me to further my education. I earned a Bachelor’s degree with a double major in Business Administration and Business Finance and then went on to receive my Master’s degree in Business Administration with a focus in Accounting.
My educational accomplishments and eagerness to enter the accounting workforce landed me a prominent position as an Accounting Manager for a non-profit religious private school. After fine-tuning my skillset there, I became a Retail Accountant, responsible for managing the finances of eleven retail stores across various states.
At the Garden, my primary responsibilities include handling all accounts payables, expenses, and revenue functions. I manage the daily finance and accounting operations and assist staff and vendors with any finance-related questions. I’ve enjoyed the inclusiveness, warm welcomes, and support I have found at the Garden. I love my job as the Garden’s Accountant and am excited to continue learning and growing in this beautiful environment.
Outside of work, I have three beautiful daughters, and we all love being active outdoors and enjoying nature. We’re also looking forward to starting our own at-home fruit and veggie garden!
Facilities Team
Scott Bradley
Facilities Director
bradley@dsbg.org
Scott Bradley - Facilities Manager
My name is Scott Bradley. I retired in 2021 from York County Government in South Carolina after 28 years in Facilities Maintenance, the first two years as a maintenance technician and the last 26 of those as the supervisor. I was responsible for planning and designing, as well as overseeing improvements of company projects.
After I retired, I was looking for a job that would challenge me and introduce me to new opportunities. I found that when I was hired by Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden as the Facilities Manager. The responsibilities are similar, but on a smaller scale. The repairs here must be done in a timely manner to keep the gardens safe for the visitors and the employees.
I had never experienced the Christmas lights at Daniel Stowe until I started working here. I enjoyed watching the visitors and their families as they strolled through the gardens viewing the lights.
Louis Racick
Grounds Technician
racick@dsbg.org
Louis Racick - Facilities
Hello! My name is Louis. I was born in Germany and lived there for 5 years before moving to the Carolinas. My start in horticulture began at Teqa Hills Farm, which is a local hydropower farm.
I am in charge of land management and facilities here at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. I started here part time in horticulture, and then worked my way up from there. My favorite part about working here is helping with holiday events, socializing, and educating our patrons. In my free time, I enjoy sculpting and prop building. A fun fact about me is that I worked as a commercial photographer for over a decade!
I had never experienced the Christmas lights at Daniel Stowe until I started working here. I enjoyed watching the visitors and their families as they strolled through the gardens viewing the lights.
Howard Stapleton
Facility Technician
stapleton@dsbg.org
Howard Stapleton - Facilities Technician
My name is Howard Stapleton and I am a Facilities Technician at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. I worked in my family business for 30 years, specializing in utility maintenance, landscape supply, and design. After that, I transitioned into working for York County for eight years, specializing in buildings and ground maintenance.
In my position as Facilities Technician, my primary responsibility is taking care of the buildings and grounds on the property. My favorite part of my work is seeing the patrons enjoy and explore the areas that I maintain.
When I’m not at work, I enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking, mountain biking, and camping, as well as spending time with my family.
