Mark Mortenson, president and CEO of the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, has died suddenly.
The Botanical Gardens made the announcement on Sunday, Sept. 15.
“Mark was a visionary leader who embodied the spirit of our ‘Wow, Wonder, Welcome’ philosophy, enriching the experience of every guest who visited our Gardens,” according to the announcement. “His warmth, generosity, and dedication made a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
In honor of Mortenson, the Botanical Gardens was closed yesterday and today. Additionally, the Botanical Bash event scheduled for Friday, September 20 has been cancelled. Attendees will receive information about their tickets via email.
Before joining the Botanical Gardens in March 2022, Mortenson played a dual role as president and CEO of the Richardson Center Corporation and executive director of the Lipsey Architecture Center Buffalo. He led the transformation efforts at the Buffalo Museum of Science and Tifft Nature Preserve and held leadership positions at The Arc Erie County, a non-profit agency that supports children and adults with disabilities. Before coming to Buffalo, he was a vice president with the Walt Disney Company.
Mortenson earned his undergraduate degree from California State University at Fullerton and his Master’s Degree from Woodbury University.