Longtime Morton Arboretum President Will Retire In 2022

LISLE, IL —Gerard T. Donnelly, the longtime president and CEO of the Morton Arboretum, announced last week that he will be retiring next year. Donnelly, who has served in his role since 1990, said his last day on the job will be Sept. 30, 2022.

Those who have worked closely with Donnelly, said the trained botanist and forest ecologist has expanded the Morton Arboretum's science, conservation and education programs, while increasing its visibility, public outreach and philanthropic support. The institution will celebrate its 100th year in 2022.

"Thanks to (Donnelly's) exceptional leadership and talent, The Morton Arboretum has grown to become the leading arboretum in the world, as well as a tremendous asset for our community," said Stephen C. Van Arsdell, chair of the arboretum's Board of Trustees. "As a scientist and innovator, Gerry has positioned the organization for continued success into its second century as a center of tree expertise and source of inspiration for people to plant and protect trees."

In a release, the arboretum highlighted Donnelly's accomplishments over the last three decades.

Donnelly has overseen the addition of the four-acre Children's Garden, which has helped to draw new generations to the arboretum. He has helped increase attendance -with one million guests now visiting each year - making the arboretum one of the region's top visitor attractions.

Donnelly also has increased membership, with 60,000 member households now supporting the arboretum.

From a science and conservation standpoint, Donnelly was instrumental in the establishment of the Chicago Regional Trees Initiative, a coalition that includes 200 organizations working to improve the health of the regional forest.

The president and CEO also led the formation of The Center of Tree Science, which brings together researchers to develop scientific knowledge and technical expertise to address key challenges facing trees.

Donnelly also founded ArbNet, an international community of arboreta working to advance the purposes of tree-focused public gardens.

"It has been my aim to elevate The Morton Arboretum and grow its capacity to champion the cause of trees in the world," Donnelly said. "I have been fortunate to be able to lead this organization through a period of dramatic growth in its reach and impact at a time when its tree-focused mission is needed more than ever."

The Morton Arboretum's Board of Trustees announced that it has established a transition committee to search for Donnelly's successor. An executive recruiting firm, which specializes in mission-driven organizations, has been retained to conduct the search.