“As the UW–Madison Arboretum’s eighth director, Karen Oberhauser enjoys the quiet patch of forest and prairie in the midst of the city the way many do, with walks and bike rides to admire its beauty.

“But as she grows more involved in research and projects at the Arboretum, where she took over as director on Oct. 1, Oberhauser is hoping that others see it as more than just a serene place to walk, run or cross-country ski.”