Cody Jolliff: Chief Executive Officer
Kingsville, MO — Powell Gardens has named Cody Jolliff its new chief executive officer. The Board of Directors’ selection committee led the search initiative through a national executive search firm specializing in non-profit leadership. Jolliff’s appointment is effective immediately.
Jolliff joined Powell Gardens as manager of Public Programs in 2022. He has over 17 years of experience leading non-profit cultural institutions and developing visitor experiences at sites ranging from museums to living history farms, tourist railroads, and more. Jolliff is an alum of Oklahoma State University and Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, capital of the Cherokee Nation.
He previously worked for the Grapevine Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Oklahoma Historical Society, where he was responsible for the management of multiple heritage museums and historic sites. Jolliff and his wife, Tara, along with their son, Theodore, enjoy traveling and visiting cultural sites around the country and world.
The transition comes at an important time in Powell Gardens’ history, according to board chair Amy Eckhoff. “With an ambitious Master Plan in place, Cody will lead with a focus on the bright future of Kansas City’s botanical garden,” she said. “The future is indeed bright at Powell Gardens. We have so much to offer the greater Kansas City community through expanded programs, education, and as a great place to appreciate the importance of plants in our lives. We are excited for the future with Cody leading the team!” For more information, visit https://powellgardens.org/.
