Suzy Moore of Easton has recently been hired as the Director of Advancement at Adkins Arboretum. Moore, who was previously the Artistic Director at the Avalon Foundation in Easton, has 23 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, including artistic direction, event production, and community engagement. She brings her passion for mission-driven work, fostering relationships, and creating inclusive experiences to a development and advancement-focused role at the Arboretum.
The Arboretum is no stranger to Moore, who would regularly walk her dog on the 400-acre site after a busy week of programming at the Avalon Theatre.
“I love all that nature is and just being outdoors – it’s how the introvert in me recharges,” states Moore.
“I like working with the people and being outdoors and advocating for the health that being outdoors brings you. We spent a lot of time outside as a family – taking road trips, hiking, and identifying birds. My mom was also an avid gardener, and I recently became a Master Gardener Intern with the University of Maryland Extension. It’s an important part of who I am,” she shares.
In her previous role at the Avalon Foundation, Moore was responsible for building community partnerships and sustaining long-term engagement. She helped to grow the organization into the largest arts nonprofit on the Eastern Shore of Maryland.
“It was a lot of work, and it was a lot of fun. I was responsible for several things at the Avalon. I look forward to my new role and the luxury to focus on one thing – advancement and exploring what is important to our members and what the potential is for the Arboretum to become,” Moore adds.
“It’s a different role as it offers balance, to be able to think strategically, but also to walk in the South Meadow and enjoy the restorative and inspirational power that this place offers,” she reflects.
This past year, Adkins Arboretum offered 164 programs, which included everything from bird walks to art classes to health and wellness offerings.
“I am excited to have the opportunity to grow professionally and use the skills I have learned over the years and to bring the relationships that I built from a business in downtown Easton to a 400-acre wild place,” she shares. Moore is also excited to be a part of the Arboretum’s growing team and the new energy that comes with new employees.
“I am thrilled to have Suzy join our most remarkable team. She brings a thoughtful wisdom, exceptional generosity and kindness, and a lot of fun. The timing is perfect for her to join us as we move forward with our Master Plan and pursue funding to add a biophilic art gallery – connecting the gallery space to the natural environment here and making accessibility improvements to the Visitor’s Center,” comments Ginna Tiernan, Executive Director of Adkins Arboretum.
Moore arrives at an exciting time for the organization, which is seeking funding to begin a Master Plan and strategic planning process for the Arboretum’s sustainability moving forward. Plans include a new dedicated art gallery that will elevate the quality of the art on exhibit there, while allowing the current gallery space to be used exclusively for programming and events.
“We’re all looking for connection in the world. The Arboretum offers the space to do that, and I am excited to be here and advocate for something I love,” Moore concludes.
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