The last few weeks have brought several major transitions at The Arboretum.  Following a decade of leadership, Molly Davis has stepped down as our director.  Since 2014, Molly has served the Arboretum with exceptional dedication, guiding us through numerous challenges while pursuing new, innovative strategies for advancement.  Scott Smith, former Dean of our College, has agreed to serve as Acting Director starting on August 1.  We expect that a national search for a new Director will begin this fall.

Unfortunately, we have also lost two more of our outstanding staff over the last few weeks.  Katie Allen, who managed all our business operations, has recently moved on to another position in the College.  Our Curator, Jess Slade, who maintained and expanded our distinguished native plants collection, is also leaving for another position in Kentucky.  Katie and Jess have demonstrated exceptional ability and made outstanding contributions to The Arboretum in their roles.  We are sorry to see them go and wish them the best with their new opportunities.

On the brighter side, the Visitor Center capital project has taken a very important step forward.  Thanks to the generosity of our many friends and donors and very significant investments by LFUCG, the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment and the University of Kentucky leadership, we have reached our campaign goal and will be moving forward with the final stages of design.   Preliminary plans now will include a larger and dramatically improved event and meeting space, featuring expanded panoramic views of the gardens and the stained glass of Laura Mentor.  On the opposite end of the Visitor Center an extension of the current structure will provide an improved entry and workspace for the Kentucky Children’s Garden.   If all goes as planned, we will be breaking ground in the spring of 2025.