In the book The Four Agreements, Don Miguel Ruiz lays out a simple but profound framework: Be Impeccable with Your Word, Don’t Take Anything Personally, Don’t Make Assumptions and Always Do Your Best. Stephanie Crockatt has made these virtues the foundation of her personal and professional life. They have guided her to be where she is today: the first-ever female Executive Director of The Dawes Arboretum.
In honor of 250 years since 1776, the Ohio Commission for the U.S. Semiquincentennial (America 250) has chosen a different theme each month to highlight and celebrate Ohio's rich history. To finish out the month of Ohio’s Firsts and Originals, read about Stephanie and her first full year at The Arboretum.
Stephanie began at Dawes in November of 2024. A champion of legacy landscapes, she thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the property just as much as she enjoyed getting to know the staff. She’s enamored by their expertise, experience and endless passion in their fields.
Stephanie calls on all of The Four Agreements in her daily work leading a staff of more than 80 people, supporting strategic growth and stewardship of The Arboretum’s resources and continuing to strive for excellence in all the organization does. It has been especially thrilling as The Arboretum builds its outreach and audience toward its centennial celebration in 2029.
Stephanie is among many women at The Arboretum who are the ‘first’ in their positions.
“I think it’s important we have this diversity within our organization, and that we are a culture that celebrates everyone and we welcome everyone,” she said. “I want to champion things for the women in this organization and know that leadership opportunities are real, and they are everlasting,” she said.
Stephanie encourages women to continue their journey toward leadership, anchor themselves in values and continue to show up with confidence and a commitment to always doing their best.
“Know your stuff. Do your research. Have some confidence and surround yourself with really good people who you can rely on,” she said. “That’s what I’ve learned the most. In leadership positions, it’s not about you. It’s about your team, and you want to surround yourself with the most competent people, and together you will shine.”
Some of Stephanie’s favorite ‘firsts’ at Dawes is that it was the first arboretum in Ohio, the Japanese Garden was one of the first at that time, and that Dawes can claim the first Cypress Swamp that was developed in the state of Ohio.
As for what’s coming next, Stephanie is excited for the Year of History as Dawes ties its ongoing commitment to a history deeply rooted in community, education and conservation to activities, stories and programs that align with America's and Ohio’s 250th anniversary. She’s excited for the 60th Annual Dawes Maple Syrup Day, The Pure Oil Company exhibit and a summer picnic.
“I think it’s really exciting to think about, and I don’t think many people know of all the great things out here at Dawes,” she said. “It’s going to be fun to tell those stories.”