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2016 Annual Report FROM THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND THE PRESIDENT & CEO ast year was another eventful and successful year for Brookgreen Gardens. We had a record-breaking year for admissions income, even with a visit from Hurricane Matthew which resulted in the Gardens being closed for six days in October. Nights of a Th ousand Candles again topped the 53,000 guest mark, and the changes implemented with online ticketing helped manage traffi c and improve the visitor experience. In early 2016, Bob Jewell announced his retirement as President and CEO. We appreciate Bob’s steady leadership over the past 12 years and the expansions and new programs during his tenure set us up for future success. A nationwide search driven by Bob and the Executive Committee brought several good candidates and in September the Board named Page Kiniry as the next President and CEO of Brookgreen Gardens. Page came on board offi cially in January of 2017. Page’s energy and enthusiasm in her fi rst few months have been excellent, and she has quickly connected with the Brookgreen team. Her stellar experience and background gives the Board of Trustees complete confi dence in Brookgreen’s leadership for the future. Brookgreen Gardens’ success is made possible through the support from our members, donors, volunteers, and guests. We truly appreciate your contributions to the ongoing mission of Brookgreen. ~ 17 ~ L Dick Rosen Chairman of the Board BROOKGREEN GARDENS 2016 ANNUAL REPORT y introduction to Brookgreen since January has been exciting and inspiring. I am awed by the Huntingtons’ gift to establish the gardens and the critical role Brookgreen plays in environmental conservation in the region. Th eir vision also created an amazing legacy in not only collecting and preserving American sculpture but also in promoting and nurturing artists who, in turn, keep Brookgreen growing and relevant for all time. I am especially grateful to past President Bob Jewell and the Board of Trustees for sound fi nancial management and creating an institutional culture that promotes ownership, teamwork, and innovation. It is a joy to work with the staff and volunteers who are talented and committed to making Brookgreen the best it can be. Th anks to our loyal members and donors as well, for we could not operate without them! With all of this in place, Brookgreen is in a unique position in its history to reach the next level. To me that means the opportunity to contribute meaningful value to society and preserve and enrich Brookgreen for future generations. Both art and nature have the ability to soothe and to inspire the human spirit. What better goals could Brookgreen achieve through its education and outreach? I look forward to working with all of our stakeholders to build on Brookgreen’s accomplishments and advance the Huntingtons’ vision. Th ank you all for your support. It is an honor to be a part of this wonderful place, truly Page Kiniry President and Chief “Ever Changing, Simply Amazing.” Executive Offi cer M


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