Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest is pleased to welcome Rebecca Brady as the new Chief Operating Officer (COO).
The COO reports directly to the executive director and facilitates the work of managers within seven departments, including Visitor Experience, Horticulture and Sustainable Landscapes, Conservation and Natural Areas, Education, Arts in Nature, Communications, and Outreach and Regenerative Design. As COO, Rebecca will continue to foster Bernheim’s culture of openness, inclusivity, effectiveness, and innovation while assisting every manager and team member to deliver their best to their job and to the Bernheim mission.
Bernheim Executive Director Dr. Mark Wourms said the position is an integral one, overseeing ongoing business strategy, operations, and execution, as well as building upon Bernheim’s mission and vision.
“As COO, Rebecca will help our team continue building momentum towards our vision of being a leader in ecological stewardship that inspires the exploration of people’s deep connections with nature,” Dr. Wourms said. “We are so excited to welcome her to the team, and to the forest.”
From her early career at the Grand Canyon to her new position as chief operations officer at Bernheim, Brady has cultivated a deep passion for the earth and a commitment to green spaces and their preservation for future generations. Brady obtained her bachelor’s degree and MBA from the University of Louisville.
“I believe my professional experience and personal passion aligns uniquely to drive Bernheim’s mission of connecting people with nature, while maximizing Bernheim’s position as a leader in environmental conservation and appreciation,” she said. “I am thrilled to be a part of this progressive and principled team.”
Rebecca has served as the chief operating officer of Blackstone Media Network, LLC, now ADK Louisville and as practice development director for Mountjoy Chilton Medley CPAs & Advisors. She is a current Louisville Parks Foundation board member and is poised to graduate from the Jefferson County Master Gardener Association program.
