By Anthony Payero
(THE BRONX, N.Y.) The New York Botanical Garden revealed Wednesday that not-for-profit executive Jennifer Bernstein will take over as chief executive officer and The William C. Steere Sr. president beginning Sept. 1, according to the Bronx Times.
Bernstein established her career with management experience in fundraising and board development for cultural, educational and environmental organizations. She will become part of the Botanical Garden after a stint with the Natural Resources Defense Council where she worked as the chief development officer and interim chief operations officer, per the BX Times.
“I’m honored to join The New York Botanical Garden, a world-renowned institution fueled by the spirit of New York City in its advocacy for the plant world,” Bernstein said. “I am committed to the Garden’s mission to protect the planet’s biodiversity and natural resources, and I am humbled by the opportunity to partner with its esteemed Board of Trustees and to lead its talented, dedicated staff in this critical work.”
In the past, Bernstein worked at Pace University where she held record fundraising efforts and oversaw individual and corporate giving at the Playwrights Horizons theater in Manhattan. She also spent time filling different at the Roundabout Theatre Company, New York University and CCS Fundraising.
“I am highly confident that Jennifer Bernstein will lead us forward into an exciting and impactful future, building upon the extraordinarily solid foundation we have at NYBG [New York Botanical Garden],” said J. Barclay Collins II, chair of The New York Botanical Garden’s Board of Trustees. “She brings enormous energy, enthusiasm, and expertise to her role. Her exceptional professional experience in arts and culture, education, and environmental protection presents a unique and valuable confluence of expertise for our institution. Our Board is excited to work with her to frame how this next generation will advance in innovative ways the Garden’s mission in science, education, and horticulture, and in community engagement.”
The new president completed her undergraduate studies at the College of Santa Fe and earned her master's degree from the New York University Stern School of Business.
Bernstein will become the 10th leader of the 130-year-old NYBG after its nine-month search that examined prospects all over the globe, according to the BX Times.
Bernstein will work with J.V. Cossaboom, NYBG's interim CEO and president to establish a smooth transition in the fall.
“I think I can speak for the staff in saying we are looking forward to working with an energetic and focused leader like Jennifer,” Cossaboom said.