A staple of the east Dallas community has a new leader.

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden’s board of directors has named Sabina Carr as its new president and CEO.

“I’m honored to be selected to lead the Dallas Arboretum, an organization and place that I’ve respected and loved for many years,” Carr said in a news release.

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Previously the CEO of the San Antonio Botanical Garden, Carr will take over for former arboretum leader Mary Brinegar, who announced plans to retire last October, beginning at the end of November.


A graduate of Southern Methodist University, Carr will oversee the director of the arboretum’s operations. In her previous role, Carr is credited with doubling the number of annual visits at the San Antonio Botanical Garden, in addition to finalizing a $40 million capital campaign to help with expansion efforts, according to the news release.

“Sabina has an incredible track record of growth and innovation—skills that will benefit the Dallas Arboretum as we build on our legacy of excellence,” said Will McDaniel, chair of the arboretum’s board of directors, in the news release.