News published: 10 July 2026

The Chicago Botanic Garden is pleased to announce the appointment of Kathleen Spiess as its Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer. Spiess has a proven track record of leading transformational fundraising campaigns, building enduring donor partnerships, and implementing innovative strategies that strengthen philanthropy and organizational effectiveness. Spiess will play a vital role in ensuring that the Garden fulfills its mission: we cultivate the power of plants to sustain and enrich life.

“Kathleen is an exceptional fundraising leader who brings deep experience with living collections and educational institutions,” said Gretchen Baker, President & CEO of the Chicago Botanic Garden. “She will strengthen the philanthropic partnerships that advance our work in science, urban agriculture, and public engagement, ensuring the Garden continues to grow its impact for generations to come.”

Spiess brings more than 25 years of fundraising experience to the Garden, and most recently served as vice president of development at The Morton Arboretum, where she led a 30-person team and partnered closely with the CEO and Trustees to achieve record-setting results, including exceeding a major campaign goal by more than $10 million.

Spiess joined the Chicago Botanic Garden as Interim Chief Development Officer in January 2026 and was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer in April.