Article from the South Pasadenan
Su Oh has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, as well as the CEO of the Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation. The announcement was made by the Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation and the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation following a nationwide search.
Oh, an accomplished leader with over 30 years of experience in arts, culture, and entertainment, has held key managerial roles at the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC) and The Recording Academy. Her background includes extensive work in community engagement, securing major grants, and implementing strategic initiatives.
Annette Castro Ramirez, President of the Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation Board of Trustees, expressed confidence in Oh’s leadership.
“We are thrilled to welcome Su Oh as the new CEO of the LA Arboretum Foundation. Her proven ability to drive innovation and foster collaboration will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the Arboretum’s role as a beloved local resource and a national leader in conservation, education, and community outreach.”
Ramirez also acknowledged the contributions of Tim Lindsay, who served as interim CEO for the past six months, ensuring the Arboretum’s smooth operations during the leadership transition.
Expanding Access and Community Outreach
The Los Angeles County Arboretum, which spans 127 acres and attracts over 550,000 visitors annually, is a vital green space for families of all economic and cultural backgrounds. Norma E. García-González, Director of the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation, emphasized the importance of Oh’s experience in strengthening public engagement.
“Su’s depth of community engagement work at Los Angeles organizations will benefit the Arboretum as it continues to expand outreach to school children, families and visitors. With Su’s leadership, the Arboretum and LA County Parks can advance their shared goals of environmental stewardship and education, inclusivity, and public engagement.”
A Personal Connection to the Arboretum
For Oh, the appointment is deeply personal. She recalls the Arboretum as a cherished place filled with family memories and milestones. She expressed her commitment to its future.
“As a vital green space near the San Gabriel Mountains, the Arboretum not only nurtures biodiversity but also provides essential health and wellness benefits, serving as a gathering place that connects people with nature and with each other.“I am excited to collaborate with our dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners to expand the Arboretum’s leadership of nature-based education, climate resilience, and ecological stewardship.”
A Vision for the Future
With a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the University of California, San Diego, and a Master’s Degree in Museum Education and Leadership from Bank Street College of Education, Oh is well-equipped to guide the Arboretum into the future.
As she steps into her new role, her focus will be on strengthening environmental programs, expanding public outreach, and ensuring the Arboretum continues to serve as a hub for conservation and education.
