A passionate advocate of public gardens and historic places, Patrick Newman joins the Wildflower Center from the University of Utah's Red Butte Garden & Arboretum, where he was the Director of Programs. He holds a bachelor's degree in biology and a master's of public administration with an emphasis in nonprofit management.
During his tenure at Red Butte Garden, Patrick supervised education programs and more than 300 volunteers. He also served as the interim director of development and cultivated financial support from current and prospective donors, including annual on-going gifts and securing a $3 million challenge grant as a lead gift in a $6 million capital campaign. In addition, Patrick represented the Garden at the Utah State Legislature and successfully lobbied that body to secure line item financing to provide ongoing support for garden programs.
Often the public voice for the Garden, he represented the organization at countless civic clubs and other speaking engagements. In addition, Patrick developed a twice-monthly television segment with the local Salt Lake City NBC affiliate promoting best gardening practices and generating additional public awareness of the Garden.
From 2003 to 2005, Patrick served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Republic of Azerbaijan where he taught English and Science. In addition to being a self-identified plant nerd, he is also an avid runner, having completed thirty marathons in seventeen states. Patrick also enjoys reading, being outdoors, and spending time with his wife and two girls.
Patrick will join the Wildflower Center on January 19, 2016.