Portland Japanese Garden Appointed New Co-CEOs

The Portland institution has selected Lisa Christy and Aki Nakanishi to serve as its joint leaders.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in People

Gouache-painted illustration of a stone lantern surrounded by lush moss and ferns, evoking the serene atmosphere of a Japanese garden. — Lisa Christy and Aki Nakanishi have been appointed as Co-CEOs of the Portland Japanese Garden, tasked with overseeing operations and future enhancements at the Washington Park site. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Portland Japanese Garden has appointed Lisa Christy and Aki Nakanishi as Co-CEOs to lead the organization. The duo will oversee operations at the 12.5-acre site located within Washington Park.

Why it matters

This leadership transition aims to strengthen the organization's mission of promoting cultural exchange and peace. The team will focus on addressing human needs for calm and connection through ongoing garden programming.

The Portland Japanese Garden spans 12.5 acres in Washington Park and was established in 1963. The organization later expanded its reach by founding the Japan Institute in 2020.

The players

Lisa Christy

She is a newly appointed Co-CEO who previously held positions at Sony and Travel Oregon.

Aki Nakanishi

He is a Co-CEO who previously served as Director of the Japan Institute and current Arlene Schnitzer Curator of Culture, Art, and Education.

The details

Lisa Christy joins the garden following tenures at Sony and Travel Oregon, while Aki Nakanishi transitions from his roles as the Arlene Schnitzer Curator and Director of the Japan Institute. Together, they plan to utilize landscape lighting to extend visitor hours and enhance the aesthetic experience for guests.

The Portland Japanese Garden was established in 1963.
The Japan Institute was founded in 2020.
Mindfulness Week was held in September 2026.
Reiko Sudo and Naomi Pollock will visit the garden on October 3, 2026.
The exhibition featuring Sudo and Pollock concludes on February 14, 2027.

Market Landscape

The leadership change reflects an effort to professionalize the management of cultural non-profits in the region. This transition positions the garden to better integrate its programming with the Japan Institute while expanding its regional footprint.

Visitors can expect continued garden programming that emphasizes cultural exchange and well-being. The new leadership team will manage future exhibit schedules and potential expansions to visitor hours through new lighting installations.

The takeaway

The garden continues to evolve as both a cultural site and a place for individual peace in an urban setting. Visitors should monitor the official site to see how the new leadership team impacts upcoming seasonal events.