KENNETT SQUARE, PA — Longwood Gardens announced this week the appointment of Kay Chubbuck, D.Phil., as Vice President of Engagement and Learning. In her new role, Chubbuck will lead a 78-person department responsible for the strategic development of Longwood’s educational and training programs. Since 1956, these programs have engaged learners of all ages from around the world.
Chubbuck brings over two decades of experience in creating educational experiences. She most recently served as Vice President for Education at the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG). At NYBG, she oversaw programs for more than 100,000 school children and 16,000 adult learners each year. She also advanced digital programs by introducing new technologies and flexible online courses to reach a global audience.
“Kay’s expertise in dynamic learning and community-building is perfect for Longwood’s growth,” said Marnie Conley, Longwood Gardens’ Chief Experience and Brand Officer. “We are thrilled to welcome her to our leadership team.”
Before working at NYBG, Chubbuck held positions at Sotheby’s Institute of Art. As Director of Non-Degree Programs and later as Global Online Director, she launched a new online graduate degree program and created an experiential summer program for teens, including scholarships for underrepresented students in the arts.
“I am excited by the opportunity to expand Longwood’s educational programs and further advance its mission of inspiring learners of all ages through the beauty of nature and conservation,” said Chubbuck.
Chubbuck’s arrival coincides with Longwood Gardens nearing the completion of its most ambitious project in a century, Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience, set to debut on November 22. This project includes new state-of-the-art classrooms and studios for both online and in-person programs. Earlier this year, the Gardens also completed the acquisition of Longwood at Granogue, a 505-acre site in New Castle County, Delaware.
Chubbuck holds doctoral and master’s degrees in English Literature from the University of Oxford, where she was a Rhodes Scholar. She also holds an MS in Journalism from Northwestern University and a BA in English and Comparative Literature from Columbia University. Beyond her professional achievements, she volunteers with East Coast Cherokees and serves on the IT and Youth Activities committees of the official Cherokee Nation satellite community for At-Large citizens in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware.
The appointment of Chubbuck aims to advance education and engagement in public horticulture. Her leadership is expected to usher in a new era of innovative and inclusive learning opportunities.
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