WALNUT CREEK, CALIFORNIA – A big change is coming to the iconic Gardens at Heather Farm Park.
Thankfully, it’s not about construction–although there’s plenty of that happening in the broader park!
Joan Lucchese, the Executive Director of The Gardens at Heather Farm, told supporters in an email Friday morning (Feb. 27) that she will retire from the role effective April 1, ending a 12-year run at the nonprofit that operates the gardens inside Heather Farm Park.
“I will be retiring from my role effective April 1st,” Lucchese wrote, calling the gardens “my community, my inspiration” and thanking donors, volunteers, and supporters for helping keep the site thriving.
In the same message, Lucchese announced her successor: Jere Peck, the Gardens’ Garden Manager for the past decade, will step into the Executive Director role.
Lucchese told supporters that Peck “knows every corner of these grounds” and said she is confident in the transition and excited about the next chapter.
The Gardens at Heather Farm describe themselves as a nonprofit education center and public garden, established in 1968, with a mission that blends horticulture, environmental stewardship, and hands-on learning.
If you haven’t been, they’re a beautiful and totally free resource for the community. I love the rose garden, and the entire garden makes a great place for a picnic during the Summer.
The Gardens have also been a constant as massive changes happen in the rest of the park.
Congrats to Lucchese on her upcoming retirement, and for more than a decade of stewardship at the gardens.
