Myriad Gardens and Scissortail Park Announce new President and CEO

Myriad Gardens Foundation and Scissortail Park Foundation have named Michelle Furrer as the new President and CEO for the organizations effective March 1, 2025. Following a nationwide search led by Phillips Oppenheim and an internal search committee comprised of foundation board members, Ms. Furrer emerged as the top candidate due to her extensive experience as Director for Como Park Zoo and Conservatory in Saint Paul, Minnesota. She will lead Oklahoma City’s two premiere urban green spaces into their next chapter of growth and success.

“I am truly honored and excited to join the Myriad Gardens Foundation and Scissortail Park Foundation as President and CEO,” said Michelle Furrer. “These two remarkable urban green spaces are essential to the heart of Oklahoma City, providing vibrant connections to nature, culture, and community. I look forward to building on their successes, fostering accessibility and innovation, and working alongside the talented teams, board members, and partners to ensure these spaces continue to thrive for generations to come.”

Larry Nichols, Chairman of the Board, expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment, “On behalf of the board of directors, we welcome Michelle Furrer as the new President and CEO of Park Management Company, Myriad Gardens Foundation, and Scissortail Park Foundation. With her exceptional leadership experience, commitment to our mission, and deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in our sector, we are confident that Michelle will guide us toward an even greater impact. We look forward to the Garden’s and Park’s continued growth and success under her vision and direction.”

Ms. Furrer brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in the cultural attractions industry, marked by a passion for connecting people to nature and the environment. Since joining Como Park Zoo and Conservatory in 2006 as its first-ever Marketing Manager, she has demonstrated exceptional capabilities in marketing, customer experience, public relations, and strategic planning. Her dedication and innovative approach quickly propelled her to the role of Director in 2009.

During her tenure at Como Park Zoo and Conservatory, Ms. Furrer successfully managed complex budgets, educational programming, and high-impact project management for exhibits such as Gorilla Forest, Como Harbor, The Ordway Gardens, and Centennial Garden. She also played a pivotal role in increasing earned revenue and enhancing visitor experiences for the more than 100-year-old institution.

Ms. Furrer earned her Business Administration degree with a concentration in Marketing and Management from Minnesota State University Mankato. Her journey in the cultural attractions industry began in high school, where she cultivated her passion for nature while working at ValleyFair Amusement Park and the Ted Paul Theater. She later advanced to become Marketing and Public Relations Manager at Mid-America Festivals, where she oversaw prominent events like the Minnesota Renaissance Festival and the Halloween Trail of Terror. Her leadership continued as Director of Marketing at Underwater Adventures Aquarium at the Mall of America, one of the nation’s premier attractions.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ms. Furrer is deeply involved in the parks and garden industry. She serves on the Scholarship Committee for the American Public Garden Association (APGA) and the Honors & Awards Committee for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), among other roles. Her dedication to fostering connections between people and nature has been the cornerstone of her career.

As President and CEO, Ms. Furrer will oversee the management and strategic direction of both Myriad Botanical Gardens and Scissortail Park. Her leadership is expected to strengthen these vital community assets, furthering their missions to provide accessible, inspiring spaces for all.