Position aims to provide visitors with exceptional experience in nature
Bernheim is thrilled to announce the promotion of longtime Bernheim employee Renée Hutchison to Director of Visitor Experience. Renée will work with our Visitor Services, Operations, and Ranger teams to ensure all visitors have the best possible experience while at Bernheim. Visitor Experience begins the moment guests are greeted at the front Kiosk, and includes clean and working facilities, the delicious food at Isaac’s Café, well-maintained trails, and more.
A Louisville-area native, Renée received her B.S. in Plant and Soil Science with a focus in Horticulture Science from the University of Kentucky. Soon after graduation, she began working at Bernheim in 2006 as the Nursery Manager, where she managed the greenhouse, coordinated the annual plant sales, and directed all plant propagation activities. She also led and expanded Bernheim’s green roof program, selecting plants for and managing several green roofs in Louisville, including the American Life Building and the Novak Center for Children’s Health.
In 2018, Renée transitioned to the role of Volunteer Coordinator. When Bernheim opened the Forest Giants in a Giant Forest exhibition in 2019 and doubled their visitors, her role took on a new importance, bringing plenty of volunteers on-site to ensure that everyone had a positive experience.
“Renée has been an integral member of our team for 14 years and I couldn’t be happier about this announcement,” said Bernheim Executive Director Dr. Mark Wourms. “She is the ideal person to make sure our visitors have the best experience at Bernheim while connecting with nature.”