Director of The Arboretum

Justine Richardson began as Director of The Arboretum in February 2020. An experienced leader in university research institutes, Justine brings her passion for people and the environment to The Arboretum. Justine is a nature enthusiast and a champion of interdisciplinary research and learning. Justine served over 20 years driving community impact through university-based, partnership research efforts, including Michigan State University's MATRIX, the 2030+ Group at the Balsillie School at Laurier University, and the International Institute for Critical Studies in Improvisation at the University of Guelph. In this role she supported a large team of researchers, community partners, staff, students, and volunteers to produce innovative research, communications and partnerships.

She holds a BA in History of Art from Yale University and an MA in Cultural Studies from Michigan State University. She is also an award-winning video director. Justine grew up in the Carolinian forest of the Appalachian Mountains of Whitesburg, Kentucky. She has lived in Guelph, Ontario, with her family since 2004, and is a passionate supporter of environmental and cultural spaces that support life in communities.

Contact: justine.richardson@uoguelph.ca