Novy named executive director of Cornell Botanic Gardens

Ari Novy, Ph.D., president and CEO of San Diego Botanic Garden, and adjunct associate professor at the Salk Institute, has been named the Elizabeth Newman Wilds Executive Director of Cornell Botanic Gardens. He began his appointment on Mar. 1, 2026. In this role, he serves as the unit’s chief officer for planning, operations, fundraising, and public engagement. 

“I’m excited to be at a garden associated with a research university that leads the world in plant science research and practice,” says Novy, a member of ASA, CSSA, and SSSA. “There are so many opportunities to collaborate with departments and schools across campus. I look forward to continuing the process of integrating the botanic gardens into every aspect of academic life.” 

Novy, a botanist and ecologist, previously led San Diego Botanic Gardens during seven formative years. As its CEO, he tripled budget and staff, professionalized operations, and launched a dedicated science program focused on Southwestern botany, food plant conservation, and medicinal plants. 

_­Source: Cornell Chronicle