Published: July 31, 2006 10:21 am            

1984 MHS graduate named Longwood Garden director

From submitted reports

Paul Redman, a 1984 graduate of McAlester High School, has been selected as the new director for Longwood Gardens, the world’s premier horticultural display garden near Kennett Square, Pa.

Redman is the son of Clarence and June Redman, McAlester.

Redman has served since July of 1997 as the executive director of Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Garden in Columbus, Ohio. Prior to that, he was interim executive director and director of horticulture at Franklin Park Conservatory. Previously, he served as the visitors program coordinator and volunteer coordinator at the National Tropical Botanical Garden in Lawai, Kauai, Hawaii.

Redman is also an adjunct professor at Columbus State Community College’s department of construction technology in Columbus, Ohio. He is also a co-host of “In the Garden with Mike Davis and Paul Redman,” a weekly gardening segment on WBNS TV in Ohio.

He received his Bachelor of Science in horticulture from Oklahoma State University in 1990 and his Masters of Science in horticulture from OSU in 1994.

Nathan Hayward, chairman of the Longwood Gardens board of trustees and a member of the search committee, said Redman was selected based on his impressive track record of building community relations, as well as his strong executive and personal qualities.

“Paul’s tenure at Franklin Park Conservatory has given him valuable expertise in overseeing a garden, like Longwood, that has an important historical component and tradition while is also innovative and progressive,” Hayward said. “He demonstrated the ability to nurture community relations, implement sound fiscal practices and work effectively with staff at all levels. As we got to know Paul, we were impressed by his professionalism and engaging style.”

Redman said he was honored to be chosen to lead a world-class organization like Longwood. “I look forward to working with its very talented staff,” he said. “It is an exciting time as Longwood is celebrating its centennial this year. What a privilege it is to embark on the next 100 years with this exquisite garden.”

Redman assumed his new role July 17.

Longwood Gardens is one of the world’s great horticultural displays, offering 1,050 acres of gardens, woodlands and meadows; 20 outdoor gardens; 20 indoor gardens within 4 acres of heated greenhouses; 11,000 different types of plants; spectacular fountains; extensive educational programs including classes, horticultural career training, and internships; and 800 horticultural and performing arts events each year.

For more information, visit www.longwoodgardens.org.

        

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