“The J. Paul Getty Trust has appointed D. Brian Houck Manager of Grounds and Gardens.  Mr. Houck will oversee the extensive and internationally renowned grounds at both the Getty Center and Getty Villa.

Mr. Houck comes to the Getty from Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, where he was Director of Horticulture, overseeing the development and maintenance of gardens at the zoo.  Before moving to Chicago, he was the Botanic Garden Manager and provided instructional support at Cal State University Northridge.

He earned his Master’s Degree in Non-Profit Management at Spertus College, and his Bachelor’s Degree in Ornamental Horticulture at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

“Brian has a strong understanding of Southern California gardens and the use of drought-tolerant materials,” said Getty Facilities Director Michael Rogers.  “With his background in horticulture and non-profit management he is in a great position to deliver a responsibly managed world-class visitor experience.”

(Excerpt pulled from an official communication courtesy of The J. Paul Getty Trust)