Learning by Leading

Learning by Leading

We believe that students learn best by leading. In this innovative environmental restoration and education program, leadership skills and real-world experience combine to help our students address the earth’s most important environmental issues. The Learning by Leading™ internship program offers quarter-long and school year-long internships in which students work in a team to solve real-world problems in the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden. 

Collage of photos of Cate McGuire smiling and surrounded by plants.

Arboretum and Public Garden receives largest gift in 90-year history

  • by Katie Hetrick
A transformational $3.7 million gift from Cate McGuire and her husband Michael Smith honors her memory while establshing support for the Arboretum and Public Garden's Learning by Leading™ program. As the largest gift in the organization's 90-year history, the donation represents a powerful investment in the next generation of environmental leaders.
Headshot of Araya Hopp in the Arboretum Teaching Nursery

Araya Hopp

  • by Araya Hopp
Landscape Assistant & Waterway Stewardship, Apprentice and Co-Coordinator (2023-2026)
Headshot of Talia Levi in the Arboretum and Teaching Nursery

Talia Levi

  • by Talia Levi
Plant Propagation and Nursery Management, Nursery Assistant and Co-coordinator (2025-2026)
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