In Plain Sight: Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden staff cultivate connection, education
This past month, the Garden was featured in the In Plain Sight column at the Daily Bruin which highlights the hidden work that goes into daily life at UCLA.
Alisha Hassanali spoke with several members of the Garden’s staff and leadership including Garden Manager John Cluff. Cluff noted the work that goes into maintaining all 7.5 acres of the Garden, which includes both administrative work like answering emails and laborious tasks like digging ditches and cleaning up debris.
Director Victoria Sork also discussed the efforts made to connect to the community, including the Tongva basket weaving garden, the Next Step program which brings low-income students to the Garden, and the upcoming Clarkia Flower Festival.
The article also touched on how the Garden acts as a connection to nature for many visitors in an urban area. Assistant Director Allison Keeney stated: “I want people to come and enjoy, but I also want them to be respectful.”
