ANN NORTON SCULPTURE GARDENS NAMES INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Marketing and communications specialist takes over leadership role
(WEST PALM BEACH) – Karen L. Steele has been named interim executive director of the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, according to David Miller, president of the organization’s board of trustees. In this role, Steele will be responsible for overall strategy and operations for the Gardens, including oversight of its art, gallery and garden, financial development, human resources, programming and execution of its mission.
The historic Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, Inc. is a recognized 501 (c) (3) operating foundation established in 1977 by the prominent sculptor Ann Weaver Norton (1905-1982). The rare palm and sculpture gardens, exhibition galleries and artist studio are located at 2051 South Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach.
According to Miller, Steele’s experience as an independent marketing and communications consultant and executive with corporations, government-regulated entities, advertising agencies and nonprofit organizations is a great fit for this leadership position. Her long-time relationship with the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens made her an ideal candidate for the role.
“Karen’s more than 25-year association with the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens as a member, donor and volunteer will allow her to easily jump into this leadership role,” said Miller. “She brings tremendous strength in strategic planning and management, marketing and communications skills through her professional background. Her nonprofit expertise has been showcased with a series of workshops she developed and presented for the Community Foundation, Nonprofits First and other organizations. Her love of art and antiques, gardens and historic homes is a great fit for us. ”
Steele has past experience serving in interim management roles for companies in transition, and has developed full-service marketing departments for multiple organizations.
“It will be a privilege to honor the important legacy of Ann Norton through this very special garden and museum,” said Steele. “I look forward to working with the great staff here, a wonderful board of committed trustees, a dedicated executive committee, the community-minded patrons of the Gardens Conservancy and the Gentlemen of the Garden, and all of the Gardens’ donors, members and volunteers to explore continued opportunities for the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens.”
In addition, Steele has served her community in volunteer roles with the El Cid Neighborhood Association, Rosarian Academy and St. Andrews Episcopal School, South Florida Science Center and Aquarium, Bethesda by the Sea, the Norton Museum and the American Red Cross.
The West Palm Beach resident received her BA from Rider University in New Jersey. Her husband J. Rodman Steele, Jr. is an intellectual property attorney, former president of the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens’ Board of Trustees, and long-term member of the Gentlemen of the Garden.
The 1.7-acre Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens are currently open to the public Wednesday through Sunday, from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. For more information about the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, visit www.ansg.org or call 561-832-5238.