Growing Community Roots in Fayetteville

William Shelby, 36, serves as the horticulture education coordinator at Cape Fear Botanical Garden. He earned a spot in Fayetteville’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2026 by pouring his energy into strengthening the city through a variety of projects—community gardens, volunteer leadership, and veteran‑focused programs.

🌱 A 80‑Acre Learning Hub

Team Management – Oversees staff maintaining the garden’s expansive 80‑acre grounds.
Educational Outreach – Designs workshops and volunteer opportunities that welcome visitors of all ages, turning the space into a vibrant learning center.
Community Impact – Keeps the garden thriving while encouraging exploration of nature’s benefits.

🤝 Deep Local Roots

Cape Fear Botanical Garden – Core organization.
St. John’s Episcopal Church – Spiritual community partner.
Fayetteville Veterans Community Garden – Veteran support hub.

These affiliations expand Shelby’s network and amplify his vision for community growth.

🌿 Horticulture as Therapy

Shelby believes gardening is more than work—it’s a form of therapy.

“Spending time in green spaces can bring calm and joy to anyone who steps into the garden,” he says.
His programs are intentionally welcoming and healing, ensuring every participant feels at home.

🌟 Leaving a Legacy

Philosophy – “Leave a place better than you found it.”
Practice – Drives long‑term positive change rather than short‑term fixes.
Personal Balance – Credits his success to balancing professional duties with personal well‑being.

🎸 Life Beyond the Garden

Historical Exploration – Visits battlefields and cemeteries to connect with the past.
Music Therapy – Listens to uplifting tunes that lift his spirits.
These reflective moments keep him grounded while he pursues future goals.

🚀 Alternate Path: Nonprofit Consultant

If Shelby were to switch careers, he’d likely become a nonprofit consultant—leveraging his community‑building experience to help other organizations grow.

🥳 Quirky Essentials

He lists five non‑essential items he can’t live without:

Good night’s sleep
Potatoes
Harvest Cheddar Sun Chips
Bacon
Sumo wrestling

These playful preferences reveal a lighter side to his personality.