Lyon named next Reiman Gardens director

Ed Lyon

Edward Lyon. Submitted photo.

Edward Lyon has been named director of Reiman Gardens. He succeeds Teresa McLaughlin, who stepped down to manage and market the Nature Connects exhibits that are traveling throughout the country. He will begin his new post on Jan. 20, 2015.

Lyon's responsibilities will include:

  • Providing leadership in operation and continued development of the Gardens’ 17-acre site
  • Representing the premier university botanical garden both internally and externally
  • Playing a significant role in the planning and implementation of the Green Space project underway in connection with the stadium expansion

"I am pleased that Ed has accepted this position at Iowa State," said senior vice president for business and finance Warren Madden. "His background and experience will be an asset to the university as we continue to develop educational programs, attract visitors to central Iowa, support university-related research and outreach, and attract volunteers and financial support of the gardens' continued growth and development."

Lyon, who has more than 20 years experience in the industry, currently serves as director of Allen Centennial Gardens, Madison, Wisconsin. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, and a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin, Madison.