Zach Garcia, Executive Director of Wesselman Woods (WW), has announced his decision to step down from his role after two years of service. Garcia began his journey at WW in 2019 as Director of Education, later serving as Associate Executive Director before taking the helm as Executive Director in January 2022.

“In just five years, Wesselman Woods has evolved into something truly special. The organization I joined in 2019 is not the same one we see today. We have achieved a new level of stability that allows us to innovate and grow. My time here has been incredible—I have cherished every moment of this transformative chapter for the organization.”

During Garcia’s tenure, the nonprofit has accomplished several significant milestones including (but not limited to) the completion of the Bernhardt Family Bird Sanctuary, elevating the profile of Howell Wetlands, launching the Eco-Access Initiative, partnering with the EVSC to launch the Sprout Initiative, acquiring 42 acres of land on Division Street, constructing a new maple sugaring shack, collaborating with the City of Evansville on plans to reforest the former Par 3 golf course in Wesselman Park, initiating the construction of a series of more accessible trails, bringing the Arwood Family Treehouse to life, and securing funding for the Evansville Forest Alliance.

Board President, Michelle Ferrero, shared: “For myself and the rest of the Board of Directors, I can say that it has been a pleasure to have worked so closely with Zach and the team he has developed. The vision and extraordinary efforts of this entire team has moved Wesselman Woods to the next level. Zach leaves us with a strong foundation to build on the momentum you all have seen over the past two years. We are actively looking for a new Executive Director to fill this role. I am confident with the groundwork that has been laid and that this will be a smooth transition. All the best to Zach in his new endeavors! We all look forward to seeing his smiling face and positive energy around the woods in the future!”

While Garcia is concluding his chapter at Wesselman Woods, he remains committed to the Evansville community. He will join Faith in Place, an organization dedicated to empowering people of diverse faiths and spiritualities to lead efforts in advancing environmental and racial justice. Garcia will serve as the Indiana Outreach Director, overseeing a network of faith and spiritual communities in Indiana.

“I have been and remain committed to uplifting and improving the Evansville community. I look forward to continuing this work in my new role and positively transforming Indiana,” Garcia added.

During this interim period, the WW Board of Directors will initiate the search for a new Executive Director. All programs, developments, and operations will move forward.

Questions? Call us at 812-479-0771 or via email (info@wesselmanwoods.org).

A New Journey Begins