June 9, 2003 — Red Butte Garden names Dr. Gregory Lee as its executive director. In his new role, Lee will direct all operations at the 150-acre botanical garden and arboretum including fund-raising, education, marketing, business administration and horticulture, and supervising a staff of more than 90.

Lee has a B.S. in botany from the University of Minnesota, a Ph.D. in botany from the University of California at Davis, and a Master of finance and accounting from U.C. Davis. His professional experience includes eight years as executive director of the Thomas I. Dodge Nature Center in St. Paul, Minnesota. He also has served as the assistant dean of biological sciences at UC Davis, the executive director of the Humboldt State University Foundation, and as a faculty member at UC Davis.

Chris Lino, chair of the search committee and managing director of Pioneer Theatre Company, said, “The search committee engaged in an extensive national search and is confident that Greg is the right person to lead the garden. He has a unique combination of academic credentials, hands-on experience running a garden and a significant fund-raising background. We couldn’t be more delighted to welcome Greg and his family to Red Butte Garden and to Utah.”

Mike Pazzi, chair of Red Butte’s Board of Trustees, added that he expects a strong working relationship between the board and the staff under Greg’s direction. “I am impressed with Greg’s enthusiasm and his level of expertise in operating botanical gardens. He is a perfect fit for Red Butte and I look forward to working with him as we move the garden to its next level.

Lee, his wife Linda Carr-Lee and two sons are looking forward to moving to Utah. Lee is excited to be taking over leadership beginning June 16, 2003 and looks forward to the growth and success of Red Butte Garden. Lee was impressed by the rapid progress that the garden has already made during its short 18-year history. He noted, “Progress like this could only have occurred with a talented and dedicated staff and board of directors and strong community and University support. With this kind of support, commitment and talent, the Red Butte Garden and Arboretum is well on its way to becoming one of the nation’s finest gardens.”

With over 150 acres of gardens and natural area, Red Butte Garden at the University of Utah is the largest botanical and ecological center in the Intermountain West that tests, displays and interprets regional horticulture. The garden is open year round for visitors to walk through or hike through the natural area. Red Butte Garden also offers four seasons of educational and recreational programs including concerts, festivals, children’s programs, nature outings, classes and workshops.