But Does YOUR Gardener Have an MBA?
While working in high-end residential landscaping for a couple of years after receiving her Bachelor of Science in horticulture degree in 2016 from K-State, Brooke Garcia realized having a strong business acumen would be helpful. So, she came back to K-State and earned her MBA, graduating in 2021.
“The combination of both science and business is powerful,” says Brooke. “Not only do I feel prepared from a horticultural standpoint, but I am confident in my ability to manage dynamic projects, budgets, and garden operations. Horticulture and business both entail an array of problem-solving, and my instructors have trained me to do exactly that.”
It didn’t take long after graduation for Brooke to land on her feet. This time she found her feet in the sandy loam of Waco, Texas, at Magnolia Farms. Yes, that Magnolia Farms. In the fall of 2021, Brooke moved to Waco from Manhattan to become Garden Director at Magnolia.
“I love everything Magnolia stands for, and the employees who work here genuinely embody the values of Magnolia,” notes Brooke. “Each day, we are inspired to do good work that matters.”
As Garden Director, she oversees all gardening operations for Magnolia properties. This includes the Magnolia Silos’ guest attraction, as well as other popular properties like the Magnolia Table, Little Shop on Bosque, and Chip and Joanna Gaines’ Farm. “On a typical day, I meet with my team in the morning to help direct their activities for the day. Whether I am monitoring plant health or planning a seasonal color install, I help guide the team in bringing the Magnolia vision to life through the garden.”
Having graduated from high school in Waco, Brooke was happy to be back. “I have always loved Texas. There is something for everyone here. We have a much longer growing season in Texas, which allows for more gardening. We typically change out seasonal color 3-4 times per year.”
“Culturally, Waco is very similar to that of Manhattan. Everyone is laid back and kind. However, Magnolia attracts thousands of guests daily which brings an array of travelers from across the world. Last week, I met a florist from Scotland. These are the stories that make Magnolia such an exciting place to experience.”
Brooke started her new job just in time to experience the holiday season. “We have been preparing for Christmas at the Silos for the past several weeks. In mid-November, we installed the winter seasonal color. The festivities officially began on November 26 and continue until Christmas. Santa Claus will be at the Silos, along with Mrs. Claus who will be facilitating story time. Between twinkling lights, hot chocolate, and extended shopping hours, the Silos is the perfect destination to delight in the holiday season.”
While she is thrilled to be in Waco and part of the Magnolia family, she is quick to point out that she lived in Manhattan for about seven years, and it will always feel like home to her. Her K-State family is a big part of that. “When they say, “we bleed purple,” it is a reminder that you are tied to the K-State family for life. It is the most encouraging and rewarding feeling to know you have a support system across the world.”