Longwood Gardens
John R. Zurn has a diverse work experience. John R. currently holds the role of Vice President of Facilities and Capital Projects at Longwood Gardens since 2023. Prior to this, they were the President of H and Z Ventures, LLC starting from 2012.
From 2012 to 2023, John worked at the University of Pennsylvania as the Century Bond Program Director and Director of Design and Construction. In this role, they managed a $300 million bond-funded construction program aimed at increasing energy efficiency in existing University buildings.
Before that, John served at the Philadelphia Housing Authority from 2009 to 2012, where they held various positions such as Director, Contracting Officer, and Senior Development Manager. Their responsibilities included managing over $70 million in upgrades and new construction projects.
Furthermore, John worked as an Attorney at Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP from 2005 to 2008 and served in the US Navy as a Lieutenant and qualified nuclear engineer from 1998 to 2003.
John R. Zurn has a diverse educational background. John R. attended the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School from 2003 to 2006, where they earned a JD degree in Law. During the same period, they also studied at The Wharton School, receiving a Certificate of Business and Public Policy, specializing in Business and Public Policy. Prior to their time at the University of Pennsylvania, John completed their Master of Science degree in Nuclear Engineering at the Naval Nuclear Power School, which they attended until 1999. Before pursuing their higher education, they obtained a BS degree with Distinction in Control Systems Engineering from the United States Naval Academy, where they studied from 1994 to 1998. Additionally, John has attended Cornell, Phillips Exeter Academy, and St. Paul's School, although no specific degree or field of study information is available for these institutions.
Longwood Gardens
In 1906, industrialist Pierre du Pont (1870-1954) purchased a small farm near Kennett Square, PA, to save a collection of historic trees from being sold for lumber. Throughout his life, Mr. du Pont indulged his passion for gardening, turning his farm into a magnificent horticultural showplace. Today, Longwood Gardens is one of the great gardens of the world, encompassing 1,077 acres of gardens, woodlands, meadows, fountains, a 10,010-pipe Aeolian organ and a 4-acre grand Conservatory. Longwood continues the mission set forth by Mr. du Pont to bring joy and inspiration to everyone through the beauty of nature, conservation, and learning. Longwood Gardens offers a breadth of mission programming that includes exhibitions, musical performances by top artists, renowned horticulture education programs, horticulture research, environmental stewardship and cultural and community engagement.