KASEY MAIER PRESIDENT
WATERFRONT BOTANICAL GARDEN
LEADER IN NON-PROFITS As President of Waterfront Botanical Gardens, Kasey Maier leverages a wealth of leadership experience to cultivate this inspiring, transformative, and sustainable green space. Maier, a Louisville native, received a Psychology degree from Denison University in Granville, OH, and attended graduate school at Penn State. Her first non-profit startup was the Kentucky College of Art + Design (KyCAD). Maier believes in bold, courageous leadership that meets challenges head-on and moves forward fearlessly. Her independent streak began early in life. “In grade school, I was not often in cliques because I didn’t follow other people. That didn’t always make me very popular, especially with groups that had already established leaders.” This perspective helped guide a career defined by building passionate and effective organizations. “I am all about the team.” Maier has centered her role as President around her proven skill sets in fundraising and marketing and isn’t afraid to hire talented people whose experience and knowledge bolster the organization in other areas. Knowing your limitations as a leader is as important as knowing your strengths. “I know very clearly what I am and am not good at and surround myself with those who provide the perfect balance.” Passion for your mission can only take you so far in the competitive nonprofit landscape. An effective executive views professional development and education as a lifelong process. “It’s harder to learn the business side of nonprofits with no business background.” Maier is focused on continuing to build a strong leadership team capable of running the Gardens for years to come. “It gives me the freedom to create long-term visions and plan future projects for the organization.” The work continues this year with the groundbreaking of a world-class Japanese Garden. Follow the progress at waterfrontgardens.org, @WaterfrontBotanicalGardens on Facebook, and @waterfrontgardens on Instagram. 1435 Frankfort Ave. Louisville, KY 40206 waterfrontgardens.org 74 TOPS LOUISVILLE | JUNE 2022
