November 7, 2025 (Eureka, CA) — The Board of Directors of the Humboldt Botanical Garden announces the appointment of veteran garden director Scot Medbury as interim executive director, effective November 10, 2025.

“We are delighted to welcome Scot as we plan our way forward,” said Board President Evelyn Giddings.

Medbury has been involved in the curation, cultivation and interpretation of botanical collections for more than 40 years. He served as president and CEO of Brooklyn Botanic Garden in New York City, and as director of the San Francisco Botanical Garden & Conservatory of Flowers, as well as the Sonoma Botanical Garden. He received the professional citation from the American Public Gardens Association in 2004, and in 2006 he was one of 100 people named to the Centennial Honor Roll of the American Alliance of Museums.

 “Scot will give us the confidence, tools and advice to undertake a national search for a long-term executive leadership,” Giddings said.

“He will be working with us through 2026, drawing on his expertise and connections to help us make the best hire,” Giddings added.

“I am honored to join the Humboldt Botanical Garden in this interim leadership role and to be able to work alongside its dedicated board, staff and volunteers,” said Medbury.

 “My goal here is to help further strengthen the organization and ensure a smooth transition for a full-time leader, while continuing to inspire our community through the beauty and learning opportunities of the Garden.”

 Humboldt Botanical Garden was started by a small group of community volunteers in 1991. It has grown into a 44.5-acre green space adjacent to Humboldt Bay and College of the Redwoods. It is supported by more than 1,000 individual, family and business members. It is a vital local resource for plant conservation, education and recreation, with ten individual gardens, nature trails and events. For more information visit www.hbgf.org or call (707) 442-5139.