Today, we take a moment to honor and express our heartfelt gratitude to Holly Hawk as she transitions from her role as Executive Director of the Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy to pursue an exciting new opportunity.
During her tenure, Holly has guided the Garden through meaningful growth and transition, always with a focus on serving Austin and enriching the visitor experience. Her vision, dedication, and leadership have left a lasting impact on our community and the Conservancy, and we are truly grateful for the momentum she leaves behind.
As Holly embarks on this next chapter, we share her own words of farewell:
Dear Friends, Supporters, and Neighbors,
As I prepare to step down as Executive Director of the Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy, I’ve been reflecting on how much this place has shaped my life. Childhood afternoons exploring the park with my family and sharing these same traditions with my own daughter have made Zilker a constant in my story, a place of discovery, joy, and connection.
Serving as Executive Director has been an incredible honor. Stewarding a space that inspires curiosity and wonder, connecting with community members, and seeing the Garden bring people together across generations has been deeply rewarding. Watching children explore new interests, families gather in the gardens, and visitors celebrate milestones here constantly reminds me why these spaces matter so much.
Both the Garden itself and the Zilker Botanical Garden Conservancy thrive because of community support. Volunteering, participating, or becoming a Conservancy member ensures these greenspaces remain vibrant and accessible for everyone. It has truly been a privilege to work alongside staff, volunteers, and supporters who share a dedication to preserving and growing this community treasure.
While I am leaving my role, my connection to Zilker—and my belief in its mission—remains steadfast. Thank you for trusting me, supporting this Garden, and being part of its future. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and for the memories we’ve created together.
With Love, Holly Hawk
Looking ahead, we are proud to announce that our Operations Manager, Heather De La Garza, will step in as Interim Executive Director, ensuring continuity and continued progress for the Conservancy.
