HARTSVILLE, SC (March 17, 2022) - Coker University recently named Dan Hill the new Director of Kalmia Gardens, replacing long-time director Mary Ridgeway following her retirement.

Before coming to Kalmia Gardens 14 years ago, Hill worked throughout the United States as a contract biologist. During those years, he participated in a vast array of studies: from performing radio telemetry on
Swallow-Tailed Kites to managing habitat for endangered Bog Turtles, from pesticide studies on fruits
and vegetables to worker exposure studies on ground and air applicators.

After many years of traveling and working on environmental projects Hill returned to where he previously to study for his botany exams as a
student, Kalmia Gardens.

Hill has been Kalmia Gardens' Assistant Director for 14 years. In 2014, Hill received the SC Environmental Educator of the Year Award and the Francis Marion University Biology Alumni of the Year Award in 2016.

Hill currently serves on the Board of Carolina Clear, Clemson Extension, The South Carolina Exotic Pest Plant Council, and PEEC (Palmetto Environmental Education Certification).

During Ridgeway's 15 years leading Kalmia Gardens, the facility went through a rejuvenation. In addition to raising more than $400,000 in grants and donations, Ridgeway and her team rejuvenated the Historic Hart House and the Little White House. 

Ridgeway also led major projects to renovate the Joslin Education Center and made major improvements to the grounds.

More on Kalmia Gardens can be found here: https://www.kalmiagardens.org