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
Deputy Director
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.
Jeff Shelton
Chief Financial Officer
shelton@dsbg.org
Jeff Shelton – Chief Financial Officer
Hi there, I’m Jeff Shelton! I grew up in Kentucky and graduated from Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green. I began my work career with KPMG in Nashville TN. I later worked in financial, operational, and development roles for both large and small start-ups including publicly traded companies in Nashville TN and Charlotte NC.
In the early 2000’s, I was part of the founding team of the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte NC and served as its CFO for over 18 years.
In mid-2023, I joined the executive team of the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden and work with both the Garden and the Catawba Riverkeeper Foundation as part of the Shared Services Collaboration between the two organizations.
I have a passion for the outdoors and being active in the outdoors. I absolutely love North Carolina and its rich natural spaces and resources. Being a part of the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden and its mission is both inspiring and gratifying to me.
My wife Rebecca and I have lived in Charlotte for 24 years. Our four daughters are grown and all live within a few hours’ drive.
Horticulture Team
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!
Jessica Collins
William H. Williamson, III, Orchid Conservatory Manager
collins@dsbg.org
Jessica Collins - Orchid Conservatory Manager
As Orchid Conservatory Manager, I care for our extensive collection of orchids and tropical plants and am responsible for our rotating displays and exhibits. Although our orchid collection consists of thousands of specimen plants, I’m always excited to acquire new orchids for our collection. I love designing the displays and making the environment feel natural, but awe-inspiring.
I look forward to visitors getting to experience our newly renovated conservatory and exploring some of our highlights. These include our silk floss tree, our living wall, and our resident chocolate tree, but there are so many other fascinating sights as well!
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!
Dylan Wrubel
Horticulture Operations Specialist
wrubel@dsbg.org
Dylan Wrubel - Horticulture
Cassy Hallman
Prairie Restoration Specialist
Cassy Hallman - Prairie Restoration Specialist
Kyle Stoudt
Horticulturalist
stoudt@dsbg.org
Kyle Stoudt - Horticulturalist
Hi, I’m Kyle Stoudt, and I’m a horticulturalist at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
My passion for nature, plants, wildlife, and fungi has guided my career and personal interests. I have a particular fascination with the native plants of the Piedmont region in North Carolina. For the past four years, I worked with the Catawba Lands Conservancy at Redlair Nature Preserve, focusing on treating nonnative and invasive plants to promote the native flora and fauna of the Piedmont.
At the Garden, my primary responsibility is to care for the Crown and Serpentine Gardens. This includes planting, weeding, mulching, and watering. Although I am new to the botanical garden world, I am eager to learn and grow in this field. What I enjoy most about working at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is being surrounded by plants and working with like-minded individuals who share my passion for botany and horticulture. The opportunity to continually learn more about these fields is incredibly rewarding.
Outside of my work at the Garden, I love looking for and learning about fungi, practicing photography, enjoying music, and hiking with my dog, June.
Development Team
Katie Causey Miller
Director of Development
miller@dsbg.org
Katie Causey Miller – Director of Development
Hi, I’m Katie Causey Miller, an NC native who is passionate about green spaces, conservation, horticulture and the arts. I grew up nearby and have always been called back to NC’s rolling hills and lush forests. I received my undergraduate degree in liberal arts/printmaking at UNCA and continued on to get my Nonprofit Business Certification from Wake Forest. I’ve served on the leadership teams at McColl Center for Art & Innovation, the Arts & Science Council, and The Mint Museum before branching out and consulting for a variety of social justice, environmental, and arts-based non-profits.
In addition to my work as an arts administrator and fundraiser, I’ve created the curriculums for and taught at the local and national level on nonprofit finance, advancement operations, data structures and analytics, and provided a wide range of support for independent artists. In supporting DSBG as a contract fund strategist, I fell in love with the mission, the amazing team here, and the joy of seeing the gardens change each week. I’m grateful to lead a team of talented fundraisers and passionate advocates who help collectively raise capital in support of the garden’s mission. We are grateful for every single member, volunteer, and patron.
I live locally in Belmont with my husband and two amazing daughters. In my spare time, you will find me volunteering at our community lead veggie/herb gardens, foraging off the trails, making art, crafting herbal teas, and pouring beeswax candles.
Brittney Speaks
Membership Manager
speaks@dsbg.org
Brittney Speaks - Membership Manager
Hi! My name is Brittney Speaks and I am the Membership Manager. 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
Development and Stewardship Associate
fisher@dsbg.org
Erin Fisher - Development & Stewardship Associate
Hi, I’m Erin Fisher, the Development and Stewardship Associate at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
I am a lifelong lover of wildlife and wild spaces, having grown up in a family deeply immersed in gardening and nature. Since moving to Charlotte in 2012, I’ve worked and volunteered with various animal and nature-related non-profits across the city in guest-facing, operations, and development-related roles. Most recently, I served as the Community Engagement Coordinator at Rebuilding Together of Greater Charlotte. I also graduated from Queens University in 2022 with a degree in Communications, returning to school later in life to obtain my degree.
At the Garden, my primary responsibilities include supporting the databases for memberships, correspondence, donations, researching grants, and running reports to bolster fundraising efforts. I assist with events and programs for both the Catawba Riverkeeper and the Garden as part of a Shared Services Collaboration. I am excited to lend my skills and time to these beautiful, nature-forward organizations.
What I enjoy most about working at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is the opportunity to support and contribute to two organizations that prioritize nature and conservation. Outside of my work at the Garden, I am a Central Carolinas Master Naturalist and a certified Beekeeper. I enjoy exploring the outdoors and maintaining a vegetable and fruit garden with my husband. I also love traveling, costuming, and all things nerdy/geeky.
Kate Graham
Visitor Services Lead
graham@dsbg.org
Kate Graham - Visitor Services Lead
My name is Kate Graham, and I am the Visitor Services Lead 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.
Program Team
Eric Smallwood
Outdoor Programs Director
smallwood@dsbg.org
Eric Smallwood – Outdoor Programs Director
Hello! My name is Eric Smallwood. I serve as the Outdoor Programs Director in the collaboration between Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden and Catawba Riverkeeper. In this role, I oversees all outdoor and recreation-based activities. My goal is to instill a love of nature through unforgettable outdoor experiences and engagement with nature.
I am an outdoor enthusiast and nature lover at heart. I was born in Summersville, West Virginia right in the heart of whitewater and climbing country and grew up camping and trout fishing with my family in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Now, with a family of my own, I continue to make those same memories and connections with nature through camping, hiking, biking, and paddling the local trails and beautiful waterways of our area. I still enjoy the solitude of a long trail run and the grind of an all-day mountain bike ride in the woods quite frequently to disconnect from the noise of the world and connect with melody of nature.
After graduating from Guilford College with a bachelor’s degree in Sports Business Management, I began a 15-year career in the public Parks and Recreation field. What began as a desire to be involved with sports quickly became a reignited passion for the outdoors and our natural spaces. In my past position as the leader of the Town of Cramerton Parks and Recreation Department, I was afforded the opportunity to partner with like-minded individuals and organizations to capitalize on and conserve our natural resources and establish Cramerton as one of the premier outdoor recreation destinations in the Charlotte Region.
I currently reside on the banks of the South Fork Catawba River in Cramerton, NC with my wife Olivia and son Lincoln.
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.
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!
Private Events Team
Philip Dodds
Event Sales Manager
dodds@dsbg.org
Philip Dodds - Event Sales Manager
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!
Amanda Hogue
Event Coordinator
hogue@dsbg.org
Amanda Hogue - Event Coordinator
Hi, I’m Amanda Hogue, the Event Coordinator at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
I graduated from Liberty University with a degree in Family and Consumer Science: Event Planning and Business. During my time at Liberty, I worked in Athletic events, and I’ve been in the wedding and corporate industry for the past five years.
As the event coordinator for special events at DSBG, my primary responsibility is to ensure that every event is beautifully executed and memorable for all attendees.
What I enjoy most about working at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is the opportunity to meet amazing people, whether it’s my co-workers or the vendors I interact with on wedding days. Plus, getting to experience the beauty of the gardens every day is a wonderful perk.
Outside of work, I love to swim and run. I also enjoy visiting farmer’s markets and going thrifting with my friends.
Retail Team
Brenda Cupp
Retail Services Assistant
cupp@dsbg.org
Brenda Cupp - Retail Services Assistant
Hello! My name is Brenda Cupp, and I am the Retail Services Assistant at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
I’ve had the pleasure of working as a retail associate at DSBG for nearly eight years. During my time here, I’ve engaged with various departments, gaining experience in customer service, sales, and bar services. At the Garden, my primary responsibilities include maintaining inventories of products, plants, food, and beverages throughout the Garden Store and Trailhead Store. Ensuring customer satisfaction is an ongoing mission of mine, and I take pride in providing excellent service to our visitors.
What I enjoy most about working at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is the opportunity to work with both customers and staff who share my passion for botanicals—and coffee! It’s a joy to be part of such a vibrant, nature-loving community. Outside of my work at the Garden, I love spending time creating beautiful potted plants to give to my family and friends. Additionally, I enjoy caring for my very special pony, “Tony the Pony.”
I look forward to continuing to share my love for nature and botanicals with everyone who visits Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
Faith Wrubel
Garden Store Manager
bezant@dsbg.org
Faith Bezant - Garden Store Manager
Hi there! My name is Faith, and I am the Garden Store Manager. Though I am originally from Livonia, NY, my heart has been spread across many states! Growing up in a small rural town led me to my love of nature and the peace it brings. From a very young age, I would use the woods around me as an adventure out of reality. I would stay outside until my mom called me in for dinner, even though I would insist I could live off the land. As I got older, I outgrew that small town and needed to explore new places. When my Husband and I met in 2015, we both wanted to see more of the world, so we left our jobs and traveled in a small rental car for 7 weeks around the United States. It was a life-changing experience to see vastly different geographies, without leaving our own country. This trip propelled us towards not only wanting to visit new places, but to live there and immerse ourselves in the culture. We moved a year later to New Orleans, followed by Asheville and we have now been in the Charlotte Metro Area for 3 years.
I have worked in retail since 2010 and have been in retail management since I was 20 years old with a mission to bring out passion in others. I began working at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in 2019 as Garden Store Manager. Shortly after, the pandemic hit. It was a perfect time to reconsider my own passions. I am now doing the three things I love the most: attending nursing school, traveling, and working at this beautiful botanical garden! I love my coworkers and the dedication they have to the garden, as well as the beauty and life of the garden we work at.
My favorite season at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is fall. Something about the crisp air, crunch of the leaves and dewy drops each morning transports me to my childhood autumn memories. Each season at the garden holds something special for everyone who visits. My favorite part about working at a nonprofit is the enormous difference you can make every day within the community and the healing that comes with it!
Administration
Steph Newman
Creative Director
newman@dsbg.org
Steph Newman – Creative Director
Hello! My name is Steph Newman, and I am the Creative Director at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden.
As the Creative Director, I orchestrate advertising, social media, graphic design, web design, and place-making initiatives, sculpting a harmonious blend of art and nature. My role extends beyond the Garden’s property, as I foster connections with local musicians, curate live music shows, and cultivate relationships with artists, nurturing a flourishing arts community. Currently, I proudly serve on the board of the Gaston Arts Council.
Beyond the professional realm, I’m a creative spirit who finds joy in singing, crafting, designing, and building. I am passionate about building a bridge between arts and nature, leveraging this connection to inspire appreciation and preservation of the natural world. Living along the banks of the South Fork Catawba River in Cramerton, NC, I share my home with my husband and two canine companions, fostering a deep connection with the local landscape that fuels my creative endeavors. With over a decade in the area, I continue to strive to infuse the spirit of creativity into the heart of this community.
Vanessa Covington
Director of Operations
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
Accountant
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 Manager
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
Facility 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 Carolina’s. 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.
Larry Rogers
Facility Technician
rogers@dsbg.org
Larry Rogers - Facilities
Hello! My name is Larry. I was born in Kingstree, SC, but I currently live in Clover, SC. I am the facility maintenance technician at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. I love my job because I am able to do something different every single day. Everything that I do for the garden, I do it as if I am doing it for myself.
Previous to working here, I worked as a pipe fitter at Duke Power, as well as working in carpentry, maintenance, and lawn care. In my free time, I enjoy working in my yard and riding my motorcycle. Thanks!
