The Kaleidoscope Park Foundation in Frisco appointed Shawn Jackson as the new executive director of Kaleidoscope Park, set to open later this year. Jackson, a longtime Frisco resident with over a decade of leadership experience at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, will officially assume her role on May 28, 2024.
“One of my greatest joys is helping bring a project to life and see it to fruition, and then to watch guests light up as they experience the creation you helped to build,” said Shawn Jackson in an official statement. “Kaleidoscope Park provides a blank slate with virtually limitless programming opportunities. I can’t imagine a more exciting time to be in Frisco and to lead this team.”
During her 11-year tenure at the Dallas Arboretum, Jackson was chief operating officer and interim CEO. She was instrumental in launching Rory Meyer’s Children’s Adventure Garden, developing new holiday events, and maintaining financial stability during the pandemic. Her leadership in these areas was crucial for the arboretum.
The Kaleidoscope Park Foundation, supported by a public-private partnership with the Communities Foundation of Texas and the city of Frisco, selected Jackson for her extensive experience and strong ties to the Frisco community.
“It was important for us to find a leader for Kaleidoscope Park who understood both the city of Frisco and Collin County and could deftly navigate the nuances of a public-private partnership,” said Florence Shapiro, chair of the foundation’s board, in an official statement. “Shawn has spent the last two decades as a Frisco resident and raised her family here. She has a clear vision of how the city, its residents, and the region overall can enjoy and utilize Kaleidoscope Park.”
Wayne White, CEO of the Communities Foundation of Texas, highlighted Jackson’s proven track record. “Shawn is a seasoned executive with an incredible track record that will directly benefit the Park,” said White. “Her knowledge in building, executing, and scaling operations and programs will elevate Kaleidoscope Park as we approach its opening and beyond.”
Kaleidoscope Park, set to open later this year, will offer various cultural, recreational, and educational programs. The nearly six-acre park located near the intersection of the Dallas North Tollway and Warren Parkway will feature public art, gardens, performance spaces, and more, creating a vibrant community hub in Frisco.
The park is also part of a larger development including residential, hotel, office, and dining spaces, designed to enhance the community's landscape. More information about the park and its upcoming programs can be found at kaleidoscopepark.org.
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