Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge Announces New Executive Director

The Friends of the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge (FONC) announced the appointment of Chris Smith as its new Executive Director, effective August 1.

Smith, a former FONC board president and longtime member, brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership, marketing, and strategic planning to the organization.

She most recently served as vice president of marketing communications for the Fort Worth Botanic Garden, where she led a successful rebrand following the 2020 merger with the Botanical Research Institute of Texas. Smith built a high-performing marketing communications department and implemented strategies that significantly advanced the organization’s brand and exceeded revenue goals.

Photo courtesy of Friends of the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge

“With her conservation mindset and a career that has been nature-focused for the past two decades, Chris is the right person to help us elevate one of Fort Worth’s most beautiful hidden gems,” said FONC Board President Linda Christie. “Her hiring comes at a pivotal time for the Friends, as we embark on new long-term planning and fundraising initiatives and begin expanding a partnership with Nature Center Staff that will elevate both organizations’ missions and reach.”

Smith earned an MBA from Texas Christian University and a master’s in environmental relations from the University of North Texas. She is a current member of the Women’s Policy Forum and former board president of the Greater Fort Worth Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America.

About the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge
The Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge encompasses more than 3,650 acres of forests, prairies, and wetlands, and is home to a bison herd and more than 20 miles of hiking trails. It is one of the largest municipally owned nature centers in the United States. The Nature Center is located at 9601 Fossil Ridge Road in Fort Worth, and admission is $6 for adults and $2 for children.

About the Friends of the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge
The Friends of the Fort Worth Nature Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge through advocacy and fundraising. In addition to providing funding for major capital projects and other needs, the Friends offers Nature Center memberships.