The Friends of the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden is a 501(c)(5) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden, located at 4560 Essen Lane in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Our mission is to promote, enhance, and sustain the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden through educational outreach, fundraising, and community engagement. As a collective of garden enthusiasts, advocates, and volunteers, we work to ensure this treasured space continues to thrive as a hub for research, learning, and public enjoyment.
In alignment with the Burden Museum and Gardens Master Plan, the mission of the Friends of the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden (FOG) is to enhance and promote the Botanic Gardens and its tranquil environment for the benefit of the public through educational programming, fundraising initiatives, and dedicated volunteerism.
The Friends of the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens at Burden will serve as a strategic partner in advancing the goals outlined in the Botanic Gardens Master Plan. This includes supporting the development of garden collections that celebrate the rich heritage of South Louisiana and helping to establish specialized gardens, greenhouses, and educational facilities that provide a comprehensive horticultural experience for the public.
Dr. Jeff Kuehny, Ex-Officio Director
Dr. Mike Salassi, Liaison, Burden Foundation
Dr. Luke Laborde, Liaison, LSU AgCenter
Executive Board:
Renee Verma, Chair
Danielle Mensman, Vice-Chair
Aimee Killeen, Treasurer
Laura Siu Nguyen, Secretary, Ex-Officio
Kevin Langley, Past Chair
Directors:
Bridget Akin
Janie Braud
Holly Carruth
Geoffrey Frost
Hunter Guidry
Kitty Hessburg-Wiemer
Joseph Holmes, Jr.
Kelly Hurtado
Sheldon Johnson
Amber Moreau
Camm Morton
Kristi Richard
Randy Roussel
Eva Ventress
Valerie Webre, Ex-Officio