Friends of the Arboretum Update

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friends of the arboretum logo

Article contributed by Larry Sackett, Board President

First, I want to express our gratitude to John Ranalli for his outstanding contributions to the Friends board, the Arboretum, and the Cooperative Extension. I can’t think of any other person who has done more to support these organizations. Thank you, John!

It’s been a busy few weeks for the Friends’ board. On April 16, 2024, Lloyd Singleton was named executive director of the Friends, in addition to his title as the Cooperative Extension executive director—as if Lloyd didn’t have enough to do!

entrance sign to NHC Arboretum with flowers and plants

Also on April 16, six new members joined the board. They are Charles Mincey, Larry Sackett, Gabriella de Souza, Rosanne Saracino, Leigh Voli, and Chris Raville. They join Doug Thatcher, vp/acting treasurer; Lisa Rodilloso, secretary; and board members Valerie Smith, JT Fritch, and Carlie Sturtz. Larry Sackett was named board president.

We also approved adding Rosemarie Pelletier to the board. Rosemarie did an excellent job managing the recent, very profitable, plant sale. She is smart, unflappable, and highly organized. She will make a great board member.

In addition, Cooperative Extension staffers Roben Jarrett and Angie Pearsall are ex-officio members (without whom the board could not function!)

We agreed to suspend Art in the Arboretum for 2024. It will be replaced by a series of programs and seminars throughout the year. We are looking for volunteers to help organize these events. We are planning a member party for mid-October. 

gulf fritillary butterfly  pink magnolia blossom against blue sky

The board will meet on the third Tuesday of the first month of each quarter of the year, and the executive committee will meet on the second Monday of every month. 

Goals for Balance of 2024

  1. Develop an effective and collegial board with up to 15 members.
  2. Expand membership in Friends.
  3. Enhance fundraising capabilities with a focus on major donors.
  4. Promote new buildings, exhibits, and programs.

The Friends of the Arboretum is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization under IRS rules. As such, donations to the Friends are tax-exempt. Also, all our records, including financial statements and board minutes, are publicly available. We believe in total transparency for board decisions and activities. If any member of the Friends is interested in joining the board, please contact Larry Sackett (lbsackett@gmail.com or 301.518.3166) to get a board application. 

Mission

The mission of the Friends of the Arboretum is to protect and promote the beautiful New Hanover County Arboretum and the N.C. Cooperative Extension for present and future generations. We achieve this goal by building a strong and diverse community of donors, volunteers, and advocates who share our passion for nature and the environment. Our efforts enhance the Arboretum’s natural beauty, biodiversity, and educational opportunities while keeping it a safe and welcoming space for all visitors. 

Vision

The New Hanover County Arboretum is a beautiful and valuable community resource that offers diverse opportunities for people of all ages. Visitors can explore gardens with a wide range of trees and native plant species, attend cultural events, and participate in educational programs on conservation and sustainability. The Arboretum is a haven for nature lovers and a hub for personal growth and community.

purple cone flower