Michael Desplaines is the new chief executive officer of the Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden, it was announced on Tuesday, May 23.
Desplaines, with more than two decades of experience in historic property development and restoration, public garden management, environmental education and fundraising, will begin his new role in July at the 127-acre Arcadia arboretum and botanical garden, which is part of the County of L.A.’s Department of Parks & Recreation.
“Michael brings a passion to connect people to nature, especially the young, so that they become advocates of public gardens and green spaces for future generations and our planet,” Annette Castro Ramirez, president of the Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation Board of Trustees, said in a statement announcing the selection. “We look forward to Michael working with our dedicated community of stakeholders to further enhance our beautiful gardens, programs, and historic resources. He will be opening new chapters in the rich history of the Arboretum and positioning us for great success into the future.”
Desplaines’ predecessor was Richard Schulhof, who in February announced his retirement this spring after 14 years as CEO.
The new CEO will run a hub that is home to plant collections from all over the world as well as a beloved animal sanctuary. Throughout the property visitors can find historical landmarks that feature Native American, Rancho Period and late 19th century treasures like the famous Queen Anne Cottage.
Desplaines joins the Los Angeles site as it begins moves forward on a Five-Year Strategic Plan (2023-2028) aimed to, “deepen connection with communities; increase equity and access to innovative park space; provide stewardship of public lands, resources, and urban forestry; support staff; and advance organizational excellence.”
Desplaines previously served as the president and CEO of the Norfolk Botanical Garden in Virginia, where he is credited with increasing annual attendance…
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