By Myah Taylor
Staff Reporter
Dallas, TX — The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is pleased to announce the appointment of Tobie Smith as its new Chief Advancement Officer (CAO).
Smith brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership and fundraising, most recently serving as a senior consultant at M. Gale. In her previous role, Smith worked with renowned organizations such as Presbyterian Healthcare Foundation (now Texas Health Resources Foundation), Methodist Health System Foundation, the Episcopal Diocese of Dallas, and Southern Methodist University (SMU), where she contributed to the historic $1.15 billion Second Century Campaign.
Throughout her career, Smith has excelled in connecting individuals with meaningful opportunities to support important causes and community priorities. Her passion for cultivating relationships and driving successful fundraising initiatives has made her a leader in the field.
As the new Arboretum CAO, Smith will collaborate closely with the president and CEO to help drive the organization’s strategies for both contributed and earned revenue streams, which provide critical support for the Arboretum’s operations.
She will oversee a broad range of responsibilities, including planning, integration, external relations, and collaboration across the Arboretum’s fundraising, membership, marketing, and facility rental programs.
These efforts collectively represent 80% of the Arboretum’s annual operating budget — underscoring the importance of her role at one of the city’s top cultural destinations.
In addition to her operational responsibilities, Smith will serve as a key member of the Leadership Team, contributing to Arboretum leadership initiatives, shaping institutional direction, and influencing strategic planning and policy development.
“We are thrilled to welcome Tobie to our leadership team,” said Sabina Carr, president and CEO of the Dallas Arboretum. “Her expertise will help us maintain our position as a top-tier cultural destination in Dallas while further strengthening the connections between the Arboretum and the communities we serve.”
Smith holds a Master of Arts in Design and Innovation and a Bachelor of Arts from Southern Methodist University. She is also a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE). In her personal life, she resides in Dallas with her husband and enjoys spending time with their three adult sons.
About the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a garden for all that enriches lives through beauty, learning, and connection. Recognized as one of the world’s top gardens, it offers a broad range of popular events, engaging educational programs, and family-friendly activities. Spanning 66 scenic acres along the shores of White Rock Lake, the Arboretum is also a leader in groundbreaking horticultural research housing a state-of-the-art life science laboratory. Supported by a dedicated board of directors, staff, volunteers, and generous donors, the Dallas Arboretum continues to flourish as a cherished community resource.
