Stephen Hayes Jr., a licensed Professional Landscape Architect, LEED Accredited Professional, and ISA Certified Arborist, is the current Executive Director of Hayes Arboretum. He is a 2003 graduate from the University of Georgia with a degree in Landscape Architecture. Stephen practiced Landscape Architecture in Virginia and Maryland prior to moving to Richmond, Indiana in 2010. He is currently continuing his education with courses that involve restoring natural habitats, climate change, and tree inventories. Stephen enjoys promoting environmental awareness and strengthening the community’s connection with our natural world. Stephen and his wife Amy enjoy jogging with their terrier-mix dog, Georgia. 

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Contact at shayes@hayesarb.org

Stephen H. Hayes, Sr. is the Chairman of the Stanley W. Hayes Research Foundation Inc, the operating foundation that funds Hayes Arboretum. He previously served as the President of the Board for 39 years. Stephen holds a Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University and an MBA in Marketing from Georgia State University. He has been active with the Foundation & Arboretum since 1973 serving in Foundation Board and Executive Capacities. In the late 90’s, he spearheaded plans for a Hayes History Museum on site for the benefit of our visitors to showcase the storied history of the founder of Hayes Arboretum. A complimentary guided tour of the Hayes Museum is yours for the asking! He has 4 children as well as 5 grandchildren.

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Contact at shayessr@hayesarb.org

Jenilee Braun, a 2016 graduate from Indiana University East, is the Naturalist and Program Coordinator at Hayes Arboretum. She obtained her Bachelor's of Science in Biology with minors in Environmental Science, Chemistry, and Anthropology along with graduating with Honors and Highest Distinction in the School of Natural Science and Mathematics. Jenilee interned and volunteered at Hayes Arboretum and was officially hired in August 2017. Her love of connecting nature with community extends to her volunteer work at Wolf Creek Habitat and Rescue. Jenilee is certified as an Interpretive Guide through the National Association for Interpretation and as a Master Naturalist through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. She continues her education, focusing on topics such as engaging infants and toddlers with nature, climate change, and interpretation.

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Contact at jbraun@hayesarb.org

Amy is a graduate of Ball State University and brings 15 years of elementary teaching experience. She enjoys researching and incorporating Hayes history into her work, as well as helping to contribute to the arboretum’s growth through future projects and improvements. Amy enjoys hiking at Hayes Arboretum with her family and rescue dog.

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Contact at ahayes@hayesarb.org

Lizzie Labadie lives in Richmond, Indiana with her husband, 2 year old daughter, newborn twins, and her dog. She loves hiking, getting outside, and exploring national parks. She originally became interested in leading Tinkergarten classes because there was nothing else like it, and fell in love with the curriculum, activities, and most of all, the community. With a Bachelor's degree in Education and 7 years experience teaching, Lizzie is excited to bring outdoor fun, play, and learning to families.

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Contact at lcolton@hayesarb.org