SWFL botanical garden CEO to retire

Neil Anderson, CEO and president of Wonder Gardens, a nonprofit zoological park and botanical garden in Bonita Springs founded 90 years ago, has announced his retirement. A search is underway for a new executive director.

Anderson joined the organization four years ago, according to a statement. His retirement is effective April 15, and he plans to return to Wisconsin to be near family, the organization says. Prior to being named CEO at Wonder Gardens, Anderson held leadership posts in Brown County, Wisconsin, including director of the Northwest Wisconsin Zoo and Adventure Park in Green Bay.

Wonder Gardens was founded in 1936 and today is a refuge for rescued and non-releasable birds and reptiles. The facility, on 3.5 acres, also has lorikeets, tortoises, alligators, flamingos and more. Wonder Gardens has $1.05 million in assets, according to its most recent public tax filings, and $1.89 million in assets.

During his time with Wonder Gardens, Anderson developed and launched its master plan and capital campaign; invested in infrastructure upgrades and expanded educational initiatives; and helped create a more engaging and accessible environment for visitors of all ages, the organization says. The gardens also recently opened a new Otter Grotto and baby gator Vivarium. 

“It has been an incredible honor to serve as CEO and president for the last four years, and I am deeply grateful for the community’s trust and partnership,” Neil Anderson says in the release.

“Neil led us through adversity in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, fostered partnerships with several community organizations, donors and volunteers, strengthened our public support and expanded our reach,” Wonder Gardens Board Chair Wendy Arsenault says in the release. “He has truly helped us ‘Renew the Wonder’ and we wish him only the best as he enters retirement.”