When I joined Discovery Green four years ago, a wise colleague advised it would take a full trip around the sun to fully understand this organization. This is because every season in the park is celebrated in its own unique way and, with each season, comes unique challenges. But this year I had one special challenge that none of us saw coming. In December 2025, I was diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

Ever resilient, the Discovery Green community came together with grit, sacrifice and passion. Our talented team broke records, completed a strategic plan, created an additional season of summer and soccer programming, launched a successful new fundraiser, renovated the park and welcomed over 3 million visitors! While I am ever in awe of these people, this year is their year.

In this impact report, we are proud to share that over 190 new donors and 19 new and returning sponsors committed to Discovery Green’s mission while Board of Directors Chair, Andrew Abendshein guided us throughout his tenure. I am grateful for his dedication and his leadership. And I know that Lacey Dalcour Salas will continue to build on that legacy. Discovery Green’s future looks bright, joyful and, as always, filled with the best of Houston’s culture.

Two surgeries and six rounds of chemotherapy later, I am very happy to report that I have rung the bell. As you read this, I am healthy and the park looks as stunning as the day it did when it opened in 2008.

Discovery Green was built to be a place where Houstonians come together to be a part of the community and hold pride in celebrating our city. This year, that mission resonated a little more deeply with me as the people of Discovery Green came together to create one of the park’s most successful years.

Thank you all. Here’s to health and happiness!

— Kathryn Lott