The Missouri Botanical Garden’s Corporate Council was established in 2008 and is comprised of representatives from the Garden’s Corporate Partner membership group of companies. The Council’s role is to identify new ways in which the Garden and its Corporate Partners can work together to enhance its membership benefits and expand its outreach to new audiences. Council members interact professionally and socially with representatives from many of our community’s leading companies, while also helping the Garden shape its future programs and events.

Benefits

• Opportunity for Council members to serve a vital role in delivering the Garden’s mission to the St. Louis region and abroad
• Access to networking opportunities while attending three annual meetings and other events at the Garden 
• Deeper understanding of about plant science, sustainability, and other issues that impact visitor attractions in the St. Louis region
• Additional benefits such invitations to special events and exhibit premieres, behind-the-scenes access, and other privileges of leadership
• Recognition in the Garden’s publications

Meetings

The Council holds three meetings per year and at least one special event for the group. Participation on a committee will require three or four additional meeting time commitments per year.

Council Objectives

• Raise awareness about the horticulture, research, conservation, and education programs of the Missouri Botanical Garden among the corporate community.
• Identify new ways in which the Garden and Corporate Partners Program members can enhance membership benefits for companies and their employees as well as to expand outreach to new audiences. 
• Identify news ways in which the Garden’s expertise can assist Corporate Partners in advancing their goals in horticulture, sustainability, biodiversity, and related topics.
• Provide input to Garden staff on the development of effective materials and programming for Corporate Partners.
• Increase financial support to the Garden by soliciting companies to join the Corporate Partners Program as well as to provide event sponsorships and other special gifts.

Representative Requirements

Council members are asked to:

• serve a two-year term with the opportunity to continue in subsequent terms;
• attend Council meetings with active participation to enhance corporate understanding of the Garden’s work;
• increase corporate involvement in the Garden’s events, volunteer program, and fundraising efforts;
• offer guidance on key issues such as membership, outreach, employee involvement, growth areas, national outreach, and special exhibits;
• and become a personal member of the Garden, maintaining active membership.