PRESS RELEASE: For Immediate Release

For more information, contact:
Erin Marteal, Interim Executive Director, Development Director
Ithaca Children’s Garden
Email: Erin@ithacachildrensgarden.org
Phone: (607) 319-4203

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Ithaca Children’s Garden Welcomes Naomi Sukenik as New Executive Director

ITHACA, NY— December 31, 2024 — Ithaca Children’s Garden (ICG) is thrilled to announce Naomi Sukenik as its new Executive Director, beginning January 6, 2025. Sukenik brings over a decade of transformative leadership in children’s education, play-based learning, and nonprofit management, along with a deep passion for cultivating curiosity and confidence in young learners.

Sukenik joins ICG following her tenure as Founder and Director of Play Adventures Inc., where she secured over $250,000 in grants within a year and expanded the organization’s programming to better serve community needs. Her ability to foster partnerships, champion sustainability, and inspire collaboration makes her an exceptional fit for leading ICG into its next chapter.

Erin Marteal, Interim Executive Director and current Development Director at ICG, shared her enthusiasm:

“Naomi’s commitment to fostering joy and a connection with nature through play aligns perfectly with the mission of Ithaca Children’s Garden. Her dynamic approach and passion for empowering children will continue to elevate ICG as an inspiring resource for children and families everywhere.”

Sukenik’s professional journey spans continents, including her work as Director of Early Childhood for the Yovalim Community Region in Jerusalem, where she implemented innovative educational frameworks inspired by Reggio Emilia, Waldorf, and Montessori methodologies. With an MA in Nonprofit Management from Hebrew University, Sukenik combines academic expertise with hands-on leadership, making her uniquely qualified to lead ICG’s growing impact.

Brock Gibian, President of ICG’s Board of Directors, emphasized the significance of this appointment:

“The Board of Directors is overjoyed to welcome Naomi to Ithaca Children’s Garden. Her proven track record of strategic vision, community engagement, and dedication to creating inclusive, enriching environments for children positions her to lead ICG into an exciting new chapter of growth and impact.”

Gibian adds, “We would also like to extend our gratitude to Erin Marteal, who seamlessly provided exceptional leadership as interim Executive Director, guiding the organization with skill, determination, and grace during this important transition.”

Sukenik’s tenure will build upon ICG’s foundational values of sustainability, inclusivity, and joyful exploration. Under her leadership, ICG will continue to inspire wonder, nurture growth, and strengthen its role as a vital resource for children and families throughout the region.

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About Ithaca Children’s Garden:
Ithaca Children’s Garden is a three-acre public children’s garden located on the Cayuga Waterfront Trail. With a mission to inspire and connect children to nature, the Garden offers dynamic programs and welcoming spaces for children of all ages to learn, grow, and play.

As a nonprofit organization, ICG depends on the support of the community to provide children with opportunities to connect with nature, nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards. Please consider supporting ICG’s mission by visiting https://www.ithacachildrensgarden.org/support/

For more information, please visit: https://www.ithacachildrensgarden.org/

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