PARIS — The McLaughlin Garden and Homestead Board of Directors has selected Leslie Guenther as interim director, effective August 20, to transition its leadership while searching for a new executive director this fall.  

The transition comes as Managing Director Karla Horecky has chosen to return to the healthcare field in a new position with MEIRS in Lewiston, Maine, after serving in various positions at the McLaughlin Garden and Homestead for the last 10 years.

Beginning as a volunteer, and then as a part-time assistant, Horecky rose to the role of Managing Director in 2019. During these past five years, Horecky has overseen the development and implementation of numerous programs and events with a cadre of community partners and loyal volunteers. While perpetuating Bernard McLaughlin’s commitment to “sharing his garden,” Horecky has been a driver for community building in the Oxford Hills region.

“We are grateful for Horecky’s commitment to the McLaughlin Garden and Homestead and wish her much success in her new role,” shared Lee Dassler, member of the Board of Directors and past executive director of the McLaughlin Garden.

Leslie Guenther, former president of the McLaughlin Garden and Homestead Board of Directors, will serve as interim director. As a longtime teacher and administrator at Hebron Academy, Guenther’s relationship with the McLaughlin Garden began 25 years ago when she first brought groups of students to the garden for community service opportunities.

She has continued to be a strong supporter of the McLaughlin Garden, and she brings to the Interim Director’s position her many decades of organizational experience from her roles as Middle School Director and Athletic Director at Hebron Academy, as well as her knowledge of the McLaughlin Garden’s operations.

“I am pleased to continue to work with the McLaughlin Garden and Homestead in this new role (of Interim Director).” Guenther went on to say, “The McLaughlin Garden and Homestead is a special place and an important community resource. I look forward to continuing to steward Bernard McLaughlin’s legacy and to working directly with our members, sponsors and the community.”

The McLaughlin Garden and Homestead Board of Directors has selected Leigh St. Pierre, retired Postmaster of Auburn, to succeed Guenther as president of the Board. St. Pierre joined the Board in 2023 and brings a wealth of leadership and gardening experience to her role.

“I am honored to serve as the president of the McLaughlin Garden and Homestead Board of Directors and look forward to pursuing growth for our non-profit, community based organization in the Oxford Hills Region and beyond,” said St. Pierre.