PHOENIX, AZ – After nearly a quarter-century of visionary leadership, Desert Botanical Garden Executive Director Ken Schutz has announced his retirement effective September 30, 2025.
His tenure has been nothing short of extraordinary, guiding the Garden to national prominence in environmental education, conservation and desert plant research.
Since taking the helm in 2001, Schutz has redefined what a desert garden can be. He spearheaded three major capital campaigns, raising nearly $53 million to enhance trails, specialty gardens, exhibit spaces, research facilities and greenhouses. His leadership transformed the Garden’s landscape—literally—expanding wayfinding portals and enriching the plant collection with new species of cactus and agave.
Beyond infrastructure, Schutz’s vision has made the Garden a must-visit cultural destination, curating world-class exhibitions that now attract nearly half a million visitors each year. Most recently, he led the opening of The RAF Exhibit Gallery, home to the Garden’s first-ever orchid show.
Schutz’s influence extends far beyond Phoenix. Appointed to the Institute for Museum and Library Services board by President Barack Obama, he has also served as president of the American Public Gardens Association and a commissioner for the American Alliance of Museums. In 2003, he was named a Piper Fellow by the Virginia G. Piper Trust, recognizing his leadership excellence.
“Ken has created an unparalleled legacy at the Garden,” said Board Chair Harold Dorenbecher. “His passion, vision and relentless dedication have made an enduring impact. While we will deeply miss his leadership, we are grateful he will now have more time to enjoy with his family.”
Reflecting on his time at the Garden, Schutz shared, “It has been an honor and a privilege to lead Desert Botanical Garden for the past two decades. I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished as a team and am excited to watch the Garden continue to grow in the years ahead. I could fill many pages describing how wonderful my time at the Garden has been, and express my gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the Garden’s 10th executive director. Likewise, there are so many people—staff, board members, volunteers and donors—that I have met and befriended since moving to Phoenix in 2001 that I could fill a book with fond memories and words of thanks.”
Before coming to Phoenix, Schutz led the Science Museum of Western Virginia and held leadership roles at the Baltimore Zoo. He holds degrees from the University of Virginia (MBA), Johns Hopkins University (MS) and Bucknell University (BS).
Per the Garden’s Board of Trustees established succession plan, a national launch has begun for Schutz’s successor to ensure a seamless transition. For further inquiries, contact Ken Schutz at kschutz@dbg.org or Scott Burdick at SBurdick@wisemanandgale.com
