Pacific Science Center Appoints New Chief Executive

SEATTLE — The Pacific Science Center, a cornerstone of educational engagement and scientific exploration in the Pacific Northwest, has unveiled its new chief executive, Kevin Malgesini, who is poised to assume leadership from the long-serving Will Daugherty on June 1. This strategic appointment follows an extensive succession process, ushering in a new era for the venerable institution.

The transition comes at a pivotal moment for cultural and educational entities, grappling with evolving public engagement models and funding landscapes. PacSci, since its inception as part of the 1962 World's Fair, has consistently served as a vital nexus for STEM learning, drawing millions of visitors to its iconic campus beneath the Space Needle. Mr. Daugherty, who has steered the institution since December 2015, is credited with navigating PacSci through periods of significant change and reinforcing its foundational mission. His departure marks the culmination of a deliberate handover strategy initiated by the board and himself in early 2022, ensuring a seamless change of command.

Mr. Malgesini brings a distinguished record of leadership and community cultivation to his new role. Most recently, he served as Managing Director for the Seattle Children's Theatre since 2018, where he was instrumental in bolstering its operational stability and artistic reach. Prior to his tenure at SCT, his career trajectory included significant positions as Advancement Director at Town Hall Seattle and Donor Relations Manager at Intiman Theatre. Across these diverse cultural organizations, Mr. Malgesini has demonstrated a profound aptitude for organizational stewardship, strategic fundraising, and fostering robust community ties — competencies that will be crucial in guiding PacSci's future initiatives. His appointment, first reported in a press release distributed via Benzinga, underscores a clear commitment by the PacSci board to leadership deeply rooted in the region's vibrant arts and culture ecosystem. The scrutiny of his past successes suggests a leader well-equipped to uphold PacSci's legacy while charting innovative paths forward amid mounting expectations for experiential learning and scientific literacy.

As Mr. Malgesini prepares to take the helm, the community anticipates a continued dedication to inspiring curiosity and scientific understanding. His proven ability to connect institutions with their audiences and secure vital resources positions PacSci to further its impact as a beacon of discovery for generations to come, ensuring its place as an indispensable educational asset in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.