Spotlight on Diane Sipos

Each month, we spotlight a volunteer, staff member, docent, donor, or sponsor of The Virginia Robinson Gardens (VRG) — those that have made an impact on the organization. We want to let you know about these wonderful people and corporations that give so much to The Virginia Robinson Gardens and to the community, and what they do that is so impactful.

This month, we spotlight our wonderful Diane Sipos, the Superintendent of The Virgina Robinson Gardens, whom we are so lucky to have! The founder of the Friends Joan Selwyn said, “With her warm smile and gentle but super-efficient manner, Diane is a master at keeping the Robinson Gardens running efficiently. We have benefited greatly from her extensive background running educational programs in architecture and the allied arts. Her programs on architecture are very popular and often sold out.”

1. Where and what did you study?

I received my BA from UC San Diego where I majored in Psychology and minored in French Literature.  I studied abroad my junior year in Grenoble, France.  I received a Master in Public Administration from USC.

2. Where did you work previously?

Previously, I worked for seventeen years for the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art, Southern California (ICAA-SCC), where I served as the Director.  

3. How did you first learn about VRG, and what inspired you to become part of VRG?

When I worked for the ICAA-SCC, the Board of Directors held an annual day-long retreat, as a way to take a step back from the day-to-day organization and do more “big picture” planning and vision setting.  The retreat was always held off-site, and one year, we had the opportunity to have it at VRG.  Tim Lindsay was a member of the ICAA, so I was familiar with VRG but had never had the opportunity to visit the gardens. Imagine my surprise at discovering such a stunning estate and gardens nestled in a residential neighborhood in Beverly Hills!    After the first retreat, the group was hooked and continued to hold its annual retreat at VRG.  A few years later, Tim told me he was retiring and shared the job announcement with me.  I applied and had the good fortune to be offered the job!  I started in March of 2022.

4. What is your role – how do you contribute to VRG?

There is never a dull moment at VRG!  As Superintendent, I manage the operations of VRG which includes planning and overseeing infrastructure and restoration projects, hiring and supervising staff, managing special initiatives and programs, and being a liaison with the County and the Friends. I really enjoy working with the staff and Friends on events and programs, such as the Friends annual Garden tour, children’s programs, and special events like the Max Hooper Schneider art installation.  It’s also very gratifying to see a major infrastructure project or a large, complex program that involves extensive planning come to fruition.

5. Can you please share a favorite VRG memory with us?

It’s hard to pinpoint one favorite memory!   I love seeing the look of wonder and excitement when children walk through the gardens.  Leading tours for first-time visitors is also a lot of fun, especially the look of surprise when they discover the Palm Forest.  One of my favorite spots is the Palm Terrace on the Palm Forest on a sunny day.

 6. Please add any additional information you would like to share!

Growing up in Los Angeles, a favorite memory as a child was going on camping trips with my family.  I’ve continued this tradition with my own family.  We love to visit and camp in the national parks, but our favorite place is Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park in the high Sierras.