Beth Exton

Name: Beth Exton

Title: Development Director

Educational background: Bachelor’s degree in journalism, with a public relations focus, from Indiana University of Pennsylvania Master’s degree in nonprofit management from Robert Morris University Master Gardener certification from The State University

Primary role at the Garden: Working with the Development Team (membership, marketing and fundraising experts), to create a multitude of ways that plant lovers can connect to the Garden.

How did you start in this career (or transition from another career): I started working with nonprofit organizations, helping to share their missions, and it slowly evolved into more of a fundraising role.

What you love most about your job: Meeting and talking with the supporters of the Garden and hearing about their love of nature and gardening. Being able to take a quick rejuvenation break by visiting our display gardens and woodlands.

Interesting anecdote or fun fact about your job: For me, it is approximately 2,500 steps from my office, around the Lotus Pond and back.

Who inspired you to pursue this line of work? I’ve been blessed by many mentors throughout my career. Right now, the passion and commitment of our board of directors and my colleagues is very inspiring particularly as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.