Mae Lin Plummer Takes the Helm

at Leach Botanical Garden: Former Executive Director

David Porter retires

as head of the iconic Portland Parks & Recreation attraction

Leach Garden Friends, the non-profit organization caring for Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R)’s Leach Botanical Garden, is pleased to announce Mae Lin Plummer as the popular garden’s new Executive Director. Plummer spent nearly 20 years in the corporate financial industry until discovering her passion for horticulture and public gardens. She served as Garden Director at the Duke Mansion and filled several roles at the UNC-Charlotte Botanical Gardens, both in North Carolina.

She recently completed the esteemed Longwood Fellows Program at Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania. Plummer will step into the position in mid-January and succeed outgoing Executive Director David Porter, who is retiring after more than 10 years of unwavering commitment to the beloved public attraction.

“Mae Lin will take over a world-class destination,” says Portland Parks Commissioner Amanda Fritz. “And the future is bright. I wish David Porter the very best in his retirement. The City thanks him for his enthusiastic stewardship as he led Leach Botanical Garden’s efforts in caretaking the magnificent site. East Portland, Leach Botanical Garden, and the parks system are better off thanks to David’s efforts. We wish him the best and are delighted to welcome such a worthy replacement. Mae Lin Plummer joins Leach with impressive credentials, experience, and commitment to stewardship of botanical gardens.”

“This is an extraordinary time of transformation and growth for Leach Botanical Garden,” says the incoming Executive Director, Plummer. “I could not be more excited to join such a passionate and dedicated team as we strive to expand access to the inspiring beauty of this unique and special place and continue to educate and steward our essential relationship with the natural world so that its benefits are available to everyone.” “I’m excited to work with Mae Lin Plummer as she takes the helm of the beloved sanctuary that is Leach,” says PP&R Director Adena Long. “Nature is a place of healing and reflection, and Leach is a place for nature at its best. Great things lie ahead for Leach Botanical Garden, and we’ll get there together.”