HOW PUBLIC GARDENS WILL CHANGE THE WORLD

Brian Vogt has been CEO of Denver Botanic Gardens since April 2007. In that time, attendance has grown to over 1.3 million per year, programs have been launched to address access to food in urban areas, a comprehensive diversity and inclusion project has been integrated into daily activity, the Center for Global Initiatives was launched focusing on plant research and crop genetics, and an exhibit program has curated works by legends such as Henry Moore, Dale Chihuly and Alexander Calder. Under his leadership, over $110 million have been raised and more than 60 construction projects have been completed including the Mordecai Children’s Garden, a parking complex, the Bonfils-Stanton Visitor Center, the Greenhouse Complex, the Science Pyramid, Ellipse Garden, Steppe Garden, Sensory Garden and Hive Garden Bistro. The capstone project of the Master Development Plan, the Freyer – Newman Center, is under construction. Previous professional experience includes three Cabinet positions for the State of Colorado and President of the South Metro Chamber of Commerce. Vogt serves as President of the Board of the American Public Gardens Association and as Board Treasurer for Plant Select. He was awarded the 2019 Cynthia Pratt Laughlin Medal for leadership in environmental protection and quality of life from the Garden Club of America. He is an active participant with many civic organizations in the Denver area and speaks frequently on intentional culture, regeneration, adaptation and leadership. He holds a BA in Classical Antiquity from the University of Colorado.