Executive Director Spotlight: Susan Diller

Susan Diller (she/her) is the Executive Director of CitySprouts. Susan has been with CitySprouts since January 2023 and has enjoyed the incredible journey working alongside our talented educators, dedicated staff, and inspiring students.

What originally inspired you to get involved in youth garden education?

I’ll never forget watching a group of kids at recess wander into their school garden, not because a teacher sent them, but because it had become their own place to play and explore. One student snapped off a spear of fresh asparagus, and munched away like it was the most natural thing in the world.

Moments like that show how powerful youth garden education can be. When kids feel comfortable enough to step into the garden on their own, to snack on what they’ve grown, to share discoveries with their friends — it’s no longer just a “special project” or a field trip. They aren’t visiting a garden; they are owning it. That sense of belonging and expertise builds confidence, sparks curiosity, and helps them see themselves as scientists in their own right.

How do you use storytelling or cultural connections to make gardening more meaningful for the students?

Storytelling is such a powerful way to connect young people to the garden. Every student comes with their own experiences and cultural traditions around food, plants, and family. When we invite students to share those stories for example  a grandparent’s favorite recipe, a plant from their home country, or a memory of cooking with a parent,  the garden becomes more than a science lab. It becomes a place of shared belonging.

Storytelling also helps students see the garden as part of a larger narrative: the history of their neighborhood, the science of the environment, and their own role in shaping the future. Those connections deepen both their curiosity and their pride in what they are growing.

How do you envision the future of youth garden education in urban schools, and what are your goals for its growth?

I envision a future where school gardens are a natural part of every urban school, not an add-on, but an essential – as expected as a science lab.  And that the garden is a  living classroom woven into the fabric of every-day learning. 

For CitySprouts, that means expanding access so that all students, especially those in historically underserved communities, can discover science through their own schoolyard gardens.

My goals are twofold: first, to strengthen and deepen our partnerships with Boston and Cambridge schools so that every child has a rich, hands-on science experience; and second, to grow opportunities for older students through programs like our Green Team. When youth see themselves as scientists, problem-solvers, and leaders in their own communities, we’re cultivating not just gardens, but a generation ready to build a more sustainable and equitable future.

If your life had a theme song, what would it be?

“And the Days Go By” by the Talking Heads. It asks the question “How did I get here?”  A good question to be asking of yourself along the way.

What’s the strangest food combination you secretly love?

Cherry Coke and pretzels. It’s the sweet-and-salty mix — with the fizzy kick — that makes it oddly perfect.

What’s one fashion trend you would love to see make a comeback?

Norma Kamali. Her bold, creative designs have a powerful edginess..

Favorite season?

Autumn —  the air is crisp, the colors are vibrant, and the work in the garden has provided us with flowers and food.

Favorite board game or video game?

The Legend of Zelda series. I love the immersive adventure, the mind-bending puzzles, and the open discovery.

Cats or dogs?

Dogs! Definitely. My dog, Roxy, keeps me grounded and makes sure I get off the computer and get outside – no matter the weather.