SANTA CRUZ, Ca. – January 14, 2025 – Rick Flores has been appointed as the new Executive Director of the Arboretum & Botanic Garden at the University of California, Santa Cruz.
Flores, a long-time staff member with over 27 years of experience at the Arboretum, steps into this leadership role at a pivotal time for the organization, which recently became part of the Division of Finance, Operations & Administration (FOA).
Flores brings a wealth of experience and a deep connection to the Arboretum. Flores, an alumnus, earned his degree in Environmental Studies in 1997. His journey with the Arboretum began during his senior year as a student worker, and over the years, he has held various positions, including Curator of the California Native Plant Collection, Director of Horticulture, and Associate Director.
In 2014, Flores returned to the Environmental Studies Department to pursue a master’s degree, focusing on the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band’s efforts to revitalize cultural knowledge related to ecosystem stewardship and California native plants. As the Steward of the Amah Mutsun Relearning Program, which he has led since its inception in 2009, Flores has worked closely with the tribe to assist their relearning efforts related to the uses, cultivation, and stewardship of California native plants and ecosystems.
As Executive Director, Flores aims to build on the Arboretum’s legacy while advancing its mission of promoting education, research, and conservation. His leadership will focus on strategic initiatives that enhance discussions about plant sciences, biodiversity, climate change, and sustainability within the campus and broader community. Additionally, he plans to strengthen fundraising efforts, donor engagement, and community partnerships.
“I’m excited and honored to lead the Arboretum in the years to come. The Arboretum is a special place. We are a gateway to UC Santa Cruz for the public, showcase extraordinary plants from around the world that have scientific and horticultural value, and, as an academic support unit and living laboratory, we provide students with experiential learning opportunities beyond the classroom,” Flores said. “I’m also looking forward to working with my new colleagues in FOA and helping the Arboretum be a model of sustainability as we address issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and land stewardship.”
Elida Erickson, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives & Sustainability, praised Flores for his unwavering commitment to the Arboretum and his collaborative approach. “Rick has had tremendous success building meaningful working relationships with local community members, faculty, staff and students across disciplinary, organizational, and cultural boundaries for decades,” she said. “I am excited about the leadership and vision he will bring to the Arboretum in the years ahead!”
Beyond his professional achievements, Flores is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking, backpacking, birdwatching, and spending quality time with family and friends.
The Arboretum & Botanic Garden is renowned for its diverse plant collections and commitment to environmental education and conservation. With Flores at the helm, the organization is poised to deepen its impact on campus and in the community, ensuring its continued growth and relevance in addressing critical environmental challenges.