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NILES — Fernwood has announced the hiring of Mary Krinock as its new executive director, who will join the staff on November 11, 2024. 

Originally from Michigan, Krinock comes to Fernwood with a wealth of experience and knowledge in arts and cultural institutions and the nonprofit sector. Her most recent role was Chief of Staff for Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago. Before that, Krinock held senior leadership positions at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago. 

In 2011, she became the Director of Strategic Initiatives and Special Projects to the President of the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. After 18 months in that role, she was promoted to Chief of Staff, where she served as the liaison to leaders, employees, donors, and public officials. In her most recent role there, she was promoted to Vice President of Operations at the Museum, where she was in charge of facilities, construction, IT, guest services, and revenue-generating lines, including retail, special events, and food services. 

Krinock’s early career included working as a Legislative Coordinator for the Michigan Association of Counties, an Assistant Director of External Programs at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, and an Archives Assistant at New York University. 

Krinock earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Michigan State University and a Master of Arts in Visual Arts Administration from New York University. 

“I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such a notable organization. Fernwood’s mission inspires me, and I am eager to lead the garden towards its next chapter of growth and impact,” Krinock said. 

Krinock will replace Carol Line, who is set to retire in December. 

“On behalf of the board and staff, it is my great pleasure to welcome Mary to Fernwood as our new Executive Director! As we wrap up the year-long celebration of Fernwood’s 60th anniversary as a public garden, we are also looking to the next sixty years. Over the coming year, Mary will take the reins and lead the team through strategic and master planning and imagine the Fernwood of the future – it looks very bright!” said Tracy Dippo, Chair, Fernwood Board of Directors.