Mara Higdon
Mara Higdon, Program Director
Started at GGI: 2004
What I Do at GGI: The majority of my time is spent making sure that GGI programs are running smoothly, staff is effective at the individual level and as a team, funds are spent appropriately, and opportunities/relationships are fully explored, developed, and nurtured. I do also spend a fair amount of time dealing with staff and personnel issues such as hiring, recruiting, coaching, and evaluation. Oversight of any major construction projects and the upkeep of Bell Garden, the Carriage House, and City Seeds also fall under my job description.
Background: I have a degree in Anthropology, minor in Biology - with an emphasis on medical anthropology/ethnobotony. I have always loved working with people and in the garden, specifically food producing gardens. Most of my knowledge of growing vegetables is hands-on, however I have studied ornamental trees/shrubs, greenhouse maintenance, and pests and diseases. I love to do carpentry projects even though I have never been formally trained (I spent a lot of time helping Dad in the garage on wood working projects). Gateway Greening has been a wonderful place to work and it always keeps me on my toes!
Originally from Springfield, Missouri I moved to St. Louis after serving in the Peace Corps in Bulgaria. My most rewarding challenge was teaching Business English and Business classes to young women entrepreneurs starting small to medium scale cut flower businesses. Back in St. Louis I worked for a state department program call Community Connections linking overseas businesses with internships in U.S. companies in St. Louis. This allowed me to learn the layout of St. Louis, its history, neighborhoods, and business climate.
Presently: With a full-time job, a family of two kids, one husband (in school), and 4 chickens life is busy. No two days are alike. Amazingly, I look forward to each day.
Recent Photos
