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A Natural Fit For HBF
Issue: Winter 2024
Winter Gary takes the reins as Highlands Biological Foundation’s interim director.
Winter Gary
The Highlands Biological Foundation has announced the appointment of Winter Gary as its interim executive director.
With four years of full-time dedication to HBF, Winter has not only become an integral part of the team but has played a pivotal role in shaping the Foundation’s growth and success.
Armed with Bachelor of Science Degrees in Environmental Science and Psychology, she first encountered HBF through a transformative semester in UNC-Chapel Hill’s Highlands Field Site program where she studied in residence at the Highlands Biological Station (a multi-campus center of WCU), conduct-ing environmental research and learning about the impact humans have on the southern Appalachian region.
In 2019, Winter returned to Highlands as a Naturalist at the Highlands Nature Center, immersing herself in educational programming and sharing our region’s natural wonders with the community. Following her season, she joined HBF part-time, working along-side then-Executive Director Charlotte Muir, and transitioning to full-time in January 2020.
“It feels like a full circle moment – coming to the Station as a student and now stepping into a guiding role for the Foundation,” Winter said. “Through my different positions, I’ve seen how our programming and outreach efforts spark curiosity and appreciation for the natural world across generations.”
HBF’s Board President, John Mitchener, feels confident that Winter’s appoint-ment as Interim Executive Director will ensure a seamless continuation of HBF’s work through the organization’s leader-ship transition. “The Foundation plays a dual role, supporting individuals’ love for the area through educational programs while actively funding research projects that deepen our understanding of the region’s natural wonders and the importance of their preservation. Winter’s understand-ing of this role and HBF’s mission overall positions us for continued growth and impact,” Mitchener said.
Throughout her tenure, Winter has been a driving force behind HBF’s member and community communications, and she has played a pivotal role in fundrais-ing initiatives and program services. She often consults other regional nonprofits to assist them in their missions as well.
To learn more about HBF’s work and how you can become involved, visit highlandsbiological.org/foundation.
