Dyan Stanley

Dyan Stanley, a dedicated advocate for community engagement and operations, has been the Chief Operating Officer of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden since early 2023.

In her role as COO, Dyan spearheads company-wide project management, ensuring seamless coordination across departments. Her oversight extends to guest services, retail, facility events and public safety, where she fosters a welcoming environment for all visitors. She acts as a liaison with Restaurant Associates, the Garden Cafe’s catering partners, and ensures exceptional experiences for Garden guests.

From Montpelier in Hanover County, Virginia, Dyan draws upon her background in event and property management to effectively oversee the day-to-day operations of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Before her current position, Dyan served as the Director of Operations at Southpark Mall with leadership in managing various aspects such as IT infrastructure, landscaping, round-the-clock security, and financial reporting and forecasting.

Dyan’s career also includes time as the Director of Event & Security at the Richmond International Raceway/International Speedway Corporation. In this position, she led year-round efforts in maintaining the sprawling 1,100-acre raceway grounds, successfully managing a team of dedicated full-time and part-time staff. In addition to her professional experience, Dyan possesses a strong educational background.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English, Sociology, and Dance from Ferrum College in Virginia. She has earned Certified Property Manager (CPM) designation and has completed the Ogleby School for Property Management & Senior Level Decision Making. Dyan’s commitment to exceptional customer service has led her to receive training from the renowned Disney Institute for Customer Service and the Ritz Carlton Management Services division.

Through her passion for community, coupled with her expertise in operations and event management, Dyan Stanley continues to make lasting connections for the Garden by creating memorable and enriching experiences for everyone who visits.

Back to Leadership Team Page