Arboretum Committee
The State of Montana Arboretum, situated on the University of Montana main campus, is managed by a committee of faculty, staff, community members, and students. The voting committee members are listed below. The committee is also comprised of non-voting members who dedicate time and effort to the management of the Arboretum. Meetings are open to the public. Check out our Events page and/or email the Committee to get engaged!
Charge
To plan appropriately to assure the development of the Main Campus as the State Arboretum and to facilitate the scientific study and public exhibition of many species of trees and shrubs and to establish and maintain a living collection of plantings for public education, student instruction, scenic beauty, and a natural biological legacy for the citizens of Montana.
Chair
Jamie Kirby, UM Natural Areas Manager/Campus Arborist
Representatives
Alexis Armstrong, Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation
Alina Cansler, Vice Chair, UM Assistant Professor of Applied Fire and Landscape Ecology
Ben Carson, City of Missoula Urban Forestry
Kelly Chadwick, Native Plant Society
Markus Charlson, Student Representative
Dru Genger, UM Grounds Department
Sean Helms, University Center Gardens
Anastasia Orkwiszewski, Treasurer, Campus Dining Gardens
Josh Smith, Community Representative, Bitter Root Resource Conservation & Development
Susan Teitelman, Secretary, Climate Smart Missoula
Advisors
Jameel Chaudhry, Facilities Services
Updated Aug. 28, 2026