Organization names new vice president of external relations

SARASOTA — Marie Selby Botanical Gardens appointed Lynn Hobeck Bates vice president of external relations.

Bates will start in the new position Oct. 4. According to a press release, she will be responsible for marketing and public relations, membership and guest relations for the organization.

Bates was most recently communications/PR manager with Visit Sarasota County, the area's tourism marketing agency. She was also chair of the global communications committee for the statewide tourism agency Visit Florida. Bates is active with the Florida Public Relations Association and the Junior League of Sarasota. 

“Lynn’s deep connections to our community, along with her expansive public relations background will help further connect Selby Gardens with both our neighbors and audiences worldwide,” says Selby Gardens COO Wendy Deming in the statement. 

Selby Gardens is dedicated to the display and study of epiphytic orchids, bromeliads, gesneriads and ferns and other tropical plants with a focus on botany, horticulture and environmental education.