The Powell Gardens Board of Directors announced that CEO Tabitha Schmidt will depart Powell Gardens on August 26, 2022, to become Executive Director of the Museum of Arts & Sciences in Daytona Beach, Florida. Chief Operations Officer Mark Zimmerman will take the role of interim CEO while the Board of Directors enacts next steps in the CEO search process.

Over the last six years, the Gardens have seen tremendous growth, including the highest visitor attendance and membership household rate in the Gardens’ 33-year history. A Master Plan to guide the organization’s trajectory for the next 30 years will increase activation through seasonal festivals, exhibitions, and signature events, with plans for elevating the visitor experience already underway.

"Powell Gardens is in an incredibly strong position with the capable and dynamic leadership team currently in place. The Board of Directors thanks Tabitha for her leadership, dedication, and hard work over the last six years. The Gardens are poised to build on the current momentum and expand the original vision of the Powell family in truly unique ways by implementing our 2021 Master Plan. This is an exciting time for the Gardens filled with opportunity and enhanced visitor experiences," said Amy Eckhoff, Board Chair.