Su Oh Named Chief Executive Officer of LA County Arboretum

The Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation and the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation have appointed Su Oh as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden.

Oh, who brings more than three decades of experience in arts, culture and the entertainment industry, will also serve as CEO of the Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation. The appointment, announced on March 6, 2025, follows a nationwide search to find a leader who can advance the Arboretum’s mission of conservation, education and community engagement.

“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,” said Annette Castro Ramirez, President of the Los Angeles Arboretum Foundation Board of Trustees.

“I would also like to express our sincere gratitude to Tim Lindsay, who served as our interim CEO over the past six months. His steady leadership ensured that the Arboretum continued to thrive during this transition, and we are deeply appreciative of his commitment and expertise in keeping our operations running smoothly.”

Oh’s extensive background includes managerial positions at the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County and The Recording Academy. She has significant experience managing educational and community engagement programs, securing grants from major donors and nonprofits, and implementing strategic initiatives. Castro Ramirez expressed confidence that Oh “will further elevate the Arboretum’s mission and strengthen our public-private partnership with the County of Los Angeles.”

“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,” said Norma E. García-González, Director of the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation. “With Su’s leadership, the Arboretum and LA County Parks can advance their shared goals of environmental stewardship and education, inclusivity, and public engagement.”

The 127-acre Arboretum attracts more than 550,000 annual visitors and serves families from diverse economic and cultural backgrounds. For many families, this is their first opportunity to explore a rich botanic and cultural history. The Arboretum features unique landscapes and plant collections including rare and endangered species from around the world, alongside historical landmarks highlighting Native American, Rancho Period and late 19th century designs such as the Queen Anne Cottage featured in many television shows and movies. Visitors can explore themed gardens, ponds, and fountains on foot or by tram. The Arboretum also hosts concerts, nature and gardening classes, exhibitions and special events.

The Arboretum is one of four botanical centers maintained by the LA County Department of Parks and Recreation, which also manages 182 parks, 9 regional parks, 38 neighborhood parks, 20 community parks, 16 wildlife sanctuaries, 8 nature centers, and other recreational facilities throughout the County.

Oh, a native Angeleno who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the University of California at San Diego and a Master’s Degree in Museum Education and Leadership from Bank Street College of Education, expressed personal connection to her new role.

“The Arboretum is a place that holds cherished memories and milestones from her family’s many visits,” Oh said. “I am deeply honored to now oversee the Arboretum’s rich botanic and cultural legacy, and to help ensure its future for the years ahead.”

“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,” said Oh. “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. Together, we will inspire future generations, deepen our collective appreciation for the natural world, and ensure this treasured landscape continues to thrive for all to enjoy.”