20-year Veteran Tapped to lead Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Patrick S. Larkin has been named Executive Director of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden and will assume the leadership role by May 15. The Garden worked with the executive nonprofit search firm Kittleman & Associates, which conducted a national search.
A 20-year public garden veteran, Larkin comes to DSBG from Cheekwood in Nashville, Tenn., where he has served since 2013 as Senior Vice President of Gardens. Cheekwood has a national reputation as one of the finest examples of an American Country Place era estate, situated on 55 acres that includes a Japanese garden, a one-mile long woodland sculpture trail, and the Nationally Accredited Collection of Dogwood™.
“We are delighted to have Patrick step into the role of Executive Director and join a team of talented and dedicated staff, and deeply committed members, volunteers and donors,” said D. Harding Stowe, chair of Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s Board of Directors. “He is a strong leader who is wonderfully-suited to guide the Garden in pursuit of Daniel Stowe’s ambitious vision.”
In 1991, Daniel J. Stowe, a retired textile executive, reserved about 400 acres of prime rolling meadows and lakefront woodlands on which to develop a world-class botanical garden. Today, 13 unique gardens including Lost Hollow Kimbrell Children’s Garden, an orchid conservatory, Levine Education Pavilion and nature trails provide an unforgettable guest experience for all.
With an extensive background in horticulture and garden leadership, Larkin brings a wealth of experience to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden as it begins implementation of a new strategic plan.
Larkin is recognized as top garden professional. Larkin earned a master’s in Public Horticulture Administration from the University of Delaware as a Fellow of the Longwood Graduate Program. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Horticulture with a minor in Psychology from Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University and a Certificate in Fundraising and Philanthropy from St. Norbert College. He is a member of the American Public Gardens Association serving in active leadership roles, including a 6-year stint as an elected member of the Board of Directors.
On a personal level, Patrick and his wife Ana have four children. He and his family look forward to relocating to the area at the end of the school year. Patrick has a passion for gardens, education and the guest experience.
“Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden’s natural beauty and thoughtful development over the years speaks to the board and staff members’ dedication to Daniel Stowe’s vision for the institution,” Larkin said. “I am honored and excited to be selected to work with the community to achieve the bold goals outlined in the strategic plan to guide the Garden to a higher level of excellence.”
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Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, the Carolinas’ Garden for All Seasons, provides guests a chance to reconnect with nature. Located within 380 acres on the banks of Lake Wylie, spectacular gardens, sparkling fountains, a children’s garden, a conservatory dedicated to the display of tropical plants and orchids, a visitor pavilion, gift shop and nature trails await the visitor. HGTV named it one of the nation’s “20 Great Gardens” and Southern Living called it one of the South’s Best Botanical Gardens. Committed to horticultural excellence, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a must-see for all ages.
