For 30 years, Misha McRAE has devoted his professional life to the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, culminating with his leadership as executive director.
But just as all good things must end, McRAE will retire Jan. 31, 2027.
“Few individuals have invested as much of themselves as Misha has in preserving, protecting, advancing and advocating for this remarkable institution,” said John Rouge, president of the nonprofit’s board of directors. “Through three decades, he has worked alongside dedicated board members, staff, volunteers, donors and community partners to nurture the garden, enabling its growth into one of Key West’s and the Florida Keys’ most valued environmental and educational resources.”
The board of the Key West Botanical Garden Society will acknowledge McRAE’s decades of dedicated service, leadership and lasting contributions with a Butterfly Ball celebrating the garden’s 91st year and McRAE’s 30-year legacy.
He has long been known as “the face of the garden.” Having joined as a volunteer in 1997, he quickly bthecame a member of the board of directors. In 2004 he was named the first paid administrator of the garden society and was promoted to general manager in 2010. He became executive director in 2013.
Through all the years, in all his positions, Misha has been essential to the garden’s physical, philosophical and educational growth.
During his tenure, the garden expanded from 5.5 to 15 acres and its working native nursery has expanded to include over 2,000 plants representing 180 species. Under McRAE’s guidance, the garden’s education department also grew into a popular outdoor classroom and hands-on learning center for students in Key West, Monroe County and beyond. The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden is now a globally respected conservation site.
More recently, McRAE led the effort to obtain a 99-year lease from the city of Key West to continue the garden’s mission and ensure it will always remain a natural preserve and outdoor respite.
To further the garden’s mission, McRAE was accepted into and completed the Leadership Monroe County program, which introduced him to all aspects of the Florida Keys. Revelations about municipalities, hardships from natural disasters, welfare, military, arts and the history of the island chain not only enhanced his understanding beyond Key West, but also enabled him to spread his conservation message throughout the county.
McRAE has been a fervent advocate of the importance of native flora & fauna of the region. He has worked ceaselessly to further conservation efforts in the Lower Keys while always promoting science and education to local students.
He has embodied community service through horticulture, adult education and community outreach programs that have benefited Key West, Monroe County and most importantly the natural environment.
McRAE has assured the board that his retirement will not diminish his commitment to the garden. He said he intends to remain a lifelong supporter, ambassador, volunteer and friend of the organization.
