During Paul's 43-year tenure at the Morris, 28 years as the F. Otto Haas Executive Director, he transformed a quiet garden on the edge of the city into a vibrant, world-class public institution that now welcomes more than 170,000 visitors per year.

Paul began his career as the Morris's Director of Horticulture and Curator, developing a keen understanding of its mission and day-to-day activities while deepening his appreciation of the power of public horticulture. During this time, he oversaw the clearing of overgrown sections of the garden and the renewal of the living collections through expeditions to China and Korea. In 1991 after a nationwide search, Paul was selected to become the Arboretum's director. He was chosen for his vision, talent, leadership, and charisma to inspire staff and donors to raise the Morris Arboretum to the level of beauty and inclusion that its founders, John and Lydia Morris envisioned.