Wonder Gardens names Sally Mulvena as president and CEO
The Floridant/10335530

BONITA SPRINGS, Fla. - Floridant -- Wonder Gardens has appointed Sally Mulvena as its next president and CEO. She will assume the position on Wednesday, July 1.

Mulvena will oversee the organization's zoological operations, animal care, education, guest services, retail, fundraising and special events. She most recently served for 10 years as the president and CEO of the Red River Zoo in Fargo, North Dakota. During her tenure, she guided significant growth, strengthening financial stability, expanding community engagement and advancing the zoo's role in conservation and education.

"We are thrilled to welcome Sally to the Wonder Gardens," said Dr. Wendy Arsenault, chair of the Wonder Gardens board of directors. "Sally brings a unique, hands-on leadership style paired with a deep understanding of what it takes to lead and grow an organization like Wonder Gardens. Her ability to connect with both staff and the community stood out throughout the search process, and we are confident she is the right person to lead us into the future."

Mulvena brings nearly two decades of experience in the industry, beginning her career in zookeeping and advancing into leadership roles across animal care, education, development and business operations. She earned her bachelor's degree in anthropology from Minnesota State University Moorhead.

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"I am truly honored to join Wonder Gardens," said Mulvena. "I fell in love with it the first time I visited several years ago. There's a sense of magic here. You can feel it the moment you walk through the gates – in the care of the animals, the beauty of the gardens, the history and the connection to the community. I'm excited to join a team, board and community that have kept Wonder Gardens going for 90 years, and I look forward to helping lead us into the next chapter."

To learn more about Wonder Gardens, visit WonderGardens.org.

About Wonder Gardens
Wonder Gardens in Bonita Springs is a nonprofit zoological park and botanical garden established in 1936 that exudes old Florida charm. It serves as a vibrant sanctuary for exotic animals. With general admission, guests are invited to explore the lush 3.5-acre landscape and see alligators, flamingos, otters, parrots and more. For more information, visit WonderGardens.org or call 239-992-2591.