Board & Leadership

Board of Directors

Chair Randi Coopersmith Vice Chair Dave Claycomb Treasurer Alana Asmussen Secretary Vann Parker, PhD

Directors Jason Baltimore Martin Cassell John DeWald Martin Dickinson Mark Dowling Ruben Flores-Saaib, PhD Brendan Foote Roxana Foxx Andy Grant Janet Kister Chana Mannen Arlene Prater Adam Robinson Jim Ruecker

President and Chief Executive Officer

Ari Novy, Ph.D.

Dr. Ari Novy is President and Chief Executive Officer of the San Diego Botanic Garden. He is a plant biologist with a wide range of expertise in plant science and education. In addition to his role at the Garden, Dr. Novy is an active researcher, holding an appointment as Adjunct Associate Professor at Salk Institute for Biological Studies. He is the author of numerous peer-reviewed scientific papers and regularly speaks on various horticultural and botanical topics nationally and internationally. He is the founding co-chair of the Food and Agriculture Professional Section of the American Public Gardens Association. Dr. Novy has served on task forces and advisory panels for diverse groups including the White House Council on Environmental Quality, the Cornell Alliance for Science, Botanic Garden Conservation International, Rock Creek National Park, the Garden Club of America, the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization, and many others. He has a deep passion for translating science into best management practices and public education. He is immensely proud of having been a science advisor for the most recent seasons of The Magic School Bus. For his complete bio, click here.

Chief Operations and Advancement Officer

Tomoko Kuta

Tomoko joined the Garden in 2021, bringing more than two decades of leadership experience in the nonprofit sector. In her role as Chief Operations and Advancement Officer, she provides strategic direction across the Garden’s core operations and programs, including facilities management, world-class horticulture, guest services, and public and education programs. As a key member of the executive team, Tomoko also leads initiatives that strengthen financial sustainability and deepen community engagement. She oversees membership and philanthropy efforts, helping position SDBG for long-term success. Known for blending the beauty and science of horticulture with innovative business strategies, Tomoko is passionate about collaboration and works closely with the Garden’s talented team to advance its mission and build financial resilience. Tomoko holds a BS from Cornell University and an MA from the University of Chicago. An active leader in the nonprofit community, she has served as Board President of the California Association of Museums. Tomoko, along with her family, regularly volunteers for various San Diego organizations.

Chief Admin & Culture Officer

Jill Gardner

Jill Gardner grew up overseas, living in seven countries before coming back to the states for college. She then worked for the Department of Defense and Department of State as an overseas security specialist and investigator. When Jill moved to San Diego, she entered into the Human Resources field taking advantage of her multi-cultural experiences and investigative background. She came to San Diego Botanic Garden in 2016 to create a cohesive Volunteer Program. After two years, she was given the opportunity to expand into also creating an HR Department, offering focused attention on staff needs and development. Jill continues to value her role at the Garden with great respect for the staff and volunteers for whom she is fortunate to offer support.