PITTSBURGH, Pa. – March 30, 2026 – Pittsburgh Botanic Garden is pleased to announce the appointment of Abigayle Tobia as its next Executive Director, effective April 1, 2026. Tobia succeeds Keith S. Kaiser, who guided the Garden through a decade of significant growth before retiring from a distinguished 48‑year career in public garden management.
“We are deeply grateful to Keith for his leadership and the meaningful impact he has had on the Garden’s evolution,” said Michael J. Hatcher, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Abigayle brings exceptional community connections, proven fundraising success, and thoughtful leadership. Her experience will advance the Garden’s long‑term vision and strengthen the stability of our organization.”
Tobia joins the Garden at an exciting time. After surpassing 100,000 visitors in 2025, the organization is poised for continued growth and expanded community impact.
“This is a pivotal moment for the Garden,” Tobia shared. “As we deepen our ecological work and welcome more visitors each year, there are tremendous opportunities to broaden our reach, enhance our educational programs, and elevate the Garden as a resource for the entire region.”
Tobia brings more than two decades of nonprofit leadership and philanthropic expertise to her new role as Executive Director of Pittsburgh Botanic Garden. She began her fundraising career with Price Tower Arts Center in Bartlesville, Okla., and advanced into development and leadership roles across arts and cultural organizations, where she built a strong foundation in fundraising, branding, and organizational strategy. Most recently, she served as Director of Development for the University of Cincinnati Foundation’s College of Medicine, following prior leadership roles including Vice President of Philanthropy at Verland and Executive Director of the North Allegheny Foundation, further solidifying her reputation as a strategic and impactful nonprofit leader.
Tobia holds a Master of Nonprofit Management from Regis University and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from the University of Iowa. She has been active in several professional organizations and currently serves as Immediate Past President of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Western Pennsylvania Chapter.
About Pittsburgh Botanic Garden
In addition to ongoing conservation efforts such as mitigating acid mine drainage and reforestation projects, Pittsburgh Botanic Garden provides 65 acres of cultivated gardens and woodlands for the public to connect to plants. Through this innate experience: young minds are engaged, gardeners are inspired, and all visitors find a sense of calm. To plan your visit, or learn about educational programming and community events, go to PittsburghBotanicGarden.org.
