by azhadminKM

As I sit to type my final AZH President’s report, I am a little saddened but also very excited to pass the torch to your new AZH President and board members. It has been an amazing experience to serve on the AZH Board of Directors since 2006 as Treasurer and President. Our organization is led by a passionate and dedicated group of professionals who volunteer their precious time to grow the organization, expand our reach, support our members, and promote zoo horticulture and plant conservation. AZH is unique in the fact that we determine our direction and where we can make the biggest impact through exhibit design, conservation, IPM, or simply promoting the value of horticulture. We need to continue to educate and promote ourselves as the experts in the field of zoo horticulture–not just as an organization but also as individuals.

Each one of you is an expert and plays a vital role in the success of AZH.  I challenge all of you to seek opportunities to become a larger part of the success of AZH by joining a committee, running for a board position, writing articles about your projects, and becoming a mentor to those new to our organization. I thank you for allowing me the opportunity to lead AZH and share in our success.

Soon we will gather here in Naples to educate each other and revive our passion for what we do every day. I cannot thank you enough for your flexibility and support through one of the most difficult experiences of my life. Many of us have experienced natural disasters and I think I can speak for some who will say the phone calls, emails, and messages during that time are often what will get you through the days, weeks, and months of recovery efforts. We have learned a lot about each other and what we can accomplish as a staff and family. We are excited to share our paradise that we call Naples with you and can’t wait to see you!