Museum of Science and Industry President and CEO David Mosena Announces Retirement

The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI) today announced that David Mosena is retiring as Museum president and chief executive officer, effective October 2020. Mosena has served in his role since 1997.

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David Mosena, President and CEO of the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (Photo: Business Wire)

“Having the privilege to serve as head of this wonderful institution for more than 22 years has been the honor of a lifetime,” said Mosena. “It has been an absolute pleasure working alongside the Museum’s brilliant staff, supportive trustees and passionate friends of MSI. It is their dedication, generosity and guidance that allows MSI to have such an incredible impact in inspiring our young people and I am proud of all we have accomplished together.”

During his tenure, Mosena strengthened MSI’s standing as a world-class destination, while keeping the institution an accessible resource for Chicago. He led the founding of the Welcome to Science Initiative (formerly the Center for the Advancement of Science Education), the nationally recognized science education program that touches over 700,000 young people each year by providing unparalleled resources inside and outside the Museum for parents, educators and community partners. His leadership also helped reimagine the hands-on museum experiences for which MSI is known, overseeing the development of nearly all of the Museum’s most iconic exhibits, including Science Storms, YOU! The Experience, U-505’s expansive indoor exhibit and Numbers in Nature: A Mirror Maze.

In recent years, Mosena has built the framework to ensure MSI remains a vital institution for the 21^st century and beyond, creating a strategic plan reaffirming MSI’s mission and vision. At the same time, the Museum launched Limitless, a capital campaign designed to modernize MSI’s historic building, grow its endowment, and support a new generation of cutting-edge experiences and programs. Over the course of his tenure, the Museum has raised over $650 million, including the largest single gift in MSI history which was received from philanthropist, Ken Griffin.

“David’s commitment to MSI’s mission and vision has redefined the role a museum can play in schools, communities and guests’ lives,” said Chris Crane, president and chief executive officer of Exelon Corporation, and the Museum’s board chairman. “We thank David for his leadership and are confident that the foundation he built will continue to benefit Chicago well into the future.”

About MSI

The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI), one of the largest science museums in the world, offers world-class and uniquely interactive experiences that inspire inventive genius and foster curiosity. From groundbreaking and award-winning exhibits that can’t be found anywhere else, to hands-on opportunities that make you the scientist—a visit to MSI is where fun and learning mix. Through its Welcome to Science Initiative, the Museum offers a variety of student, teacher and family educational programs that make a difference in communities and contribute to MSI’s larger vision: to inspire and motivate children to achieve their full potential in science, technology, medicine and engineering. The Museum is exceptionally grateful for the support of its donors and guests, who make its work possible. MSI is also supported in part by the people of Chicago through the Chicago Park District. For more information, visit msichicago.org or call (773) 684-1414.

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Julie Parente; [email protected]; (773) 753-6249
Isabel Morales; [email protected]; (773) 947-6003