Personnel

As the Director, Lauren leads the development, programming, and operation of Rutgers Gardens.  To ensure the demonstration gardens and natural areas of Rutgers Gardens continue to serve as educational resources for all, Lauren actively engages key stakeholders including Rutgers Gardens advisors, supporters, members, volunteers, and visitors; university faculty, staff and students; and statewide industry and community partners. Additionally, she leads outreach initiatives to promote Rutgers Gardens and educational efforts to increase public knowledge related to horticulture, ecology, and health.

As Assistant Director of Rutgers Gardens, Maxine oversees Horticulture and Grounds operations, working to preserve and maintain the health of the plants and trees in Rutgers Gardens and Helyar Woods. She supervises the Public Garden Management internship track and regularly engages with the public through events at Rutgers Gardens.

Doe serves as the first point of contact for Rutgers Gardens, fielding phone calls and email inquiries from visitors, students, faculty, and donors. She coordinates various administrative functions for Rutgers Gardens, including purchasing, scheduling site visits for students, faculty, and tours, managing facility rentals, and more.

Moira coordinates the logistics and promotion for programs and activities related to university and community engagement at Rutgers Gardens, including Cook’s Market. She serves as the coordinator for the Rutgers Gardens volunteer program and membership program.

Alex manages the Student Farm at Rutgers Gardens and oversees the Student Farm internship track, which provide unique learning opportunities and hands-on experiences for students. He leads the Student Farm’s vendor participation in Cook’s Market and coordinates produce donations to the Rutgers Student Food Pantry and community-based emergency food providers.

Caitlin is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of all areas of the Gardens. She works closely with the students in the Public Garden Management internship track, teaching them garden maintenance practices and a variety of horticultural techniques, as well as basic garden design as it applies to public gardens and parks.

Shanna leads the summer 4-H Day Camp at Rutgers Gardens and serves as the liaison to the overnight camp at the Lindley G. Cook 4-H Youth Center for Outdoor Education in Branchville, NJ.  Shanna also coordinates family and children’s activities at Rutgers Gardens throughout the year.