Since 2002, Matheson has directed all operations for the 30-acre public garden, and under her leadership, the nonprofit organization has actively expanded fund-raising, education, marketing, business administration, horticulture and conservation efforts with a rapidly growing membership base of more than 42,000. She is known for innovative strategies for attracting new audiences and encouraging repeat visits by guests by offering cutting-edge programs, including exhibitions by some of the world’s leading artists, popular outdoor concerts and a high-tech holiday light show.
The meteoric growth in Garden attendance over her 20 years has enabled it to reach larger and broader audiences for its mission in educating the public about its plant and animal conservation efforts.
In 2022, the Garden Clubs of America presented Matheson with its Zone Civic Improvement Commendation, and in 2021, the Garden was awarded the American Public Gardens Association’s Award for Garden Excellence, selected by its peers for demonstrating the highest standards of horticultural best practices.
Matheson is a past president of the American Public Gardens Association, serves as board chair for Midtown Alliance and is on the board of the Food Well Alliance. She is a graduate of Leadership Atlanta and a member of the Rotary Club of Atlanta.
Before joining the Garden, Matheson was Executive Director of the Red Butte Garden and Arboretum in Salt Lake City. Originally a horticulturist, she earned a B.S. in Resource Management & Park Planning and an Executive Masters degree in Public Administration from the University of Utah.