Cornell Plantations, the arboretum, botanical garden, and natural areas of Cornell University, has appointed Sonja Skelly as its new director of education.

Before joining the Plantations staff May 23, Skelly was an assistant professor at Mississippi State University, where she was responsible for statewide coordination of both the Master Gardener program and the extension program in consumer horticulture. Besides her experience with statewide program development, she has an academic background in anthropology and horticulture, and has taught in both formal and informal settings. She earned a Ph.D. in horticulture (2000) at the University of Florida.

Announcing the appointment, Cornell Plantations Director Donald A. Rakow said Skelly's new responsibilities include the management of Plantations' education program and staff, and the building of stronger links with the academic program of Cornell. "She will also be seeking outside funding to expand the program in new directions," Rakow said. "Dr. Skelly brings a wonderful set of skills to the director of education position, and we are delighted to welcome her to Plantations."