Nashville, TN (Feb 5, 2007) - Adventure Science Center, where science learning is fun, has named veteran museum professional Susan B. Duvenhage as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, according to Marty Dickens, chair of the selection committee of the museum’s board of directors.
Duvenhage most recently served as associate Director and Department Head, Exhibits and Public Programs, of the Florida Museum of Natural History, Gainesville, Florida. During her 7.5 year tenure at the museum, Duvenhage served in a number of key positions that involved spearheading exhibits, public programs, development and marketing.
"We are at the forefront of a new era of excitement and expansion at Adventure Science Center and Susan is the ideal person to guide our organization during this time,” said Dickens. “Not only is she an imaginative leader, but she also brings to the position an important background in museum exhibitions, programs and management. Most valuably, she is deeply committed to our mission of inspiring children to discover the wonders of science through innovative programs and exhibits.”
Duvenhage comes to the Adventure Science Center during a time of dramatic growth. Construction is now underway on the $20 million expansion of the Sky and Space Wing, including the state-of-the-art Sudekum Planetarium. This follows a series of blockbuster permanent exhibits over the past several years, including openings of the new HCA/Tri-Star and The Memorial Foundation BodyQuest exhibit and Adventure Tower, which are integral educational attractions for middle Tennessee’s children while drawing visitors from throughout the region. Attendance at Adventure Science Center has skyrocketed by over 100% over the past five years due to the enticing educational programs showcased at the center.
“I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to be a part of the excitement and energy at the Adventure Science Center,” said Duvenhage. “I’m eager to get to know the talented staff so we can continue to build on the Science Center’s recent successes. Science education in our schools is at a critical juncture. I’m particularly committed to the importance of developing hands-on, mind-on programs and exhibits that will inspire students of all ages to learn more about science.”
Duvenhage is a native of Orchard Park, NY who relocated to Nashville in June 2006. She joined the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville in August 2002 where in addition to Associate Director and Department Head, her positions included Assistant Director and Department Head, Exhibits and Public Programs and Assistant Director, Institutional Advancement.
Prior to that position, Duvenhage served as the Director of Development for the University of Florida Foundation where she directed the planning, implementation and administration of all fundraising activities for the Florida Museum. From 1990 to 1998, Duvenhage served as the Assistant Director of Community Relations for Shands Healthcare where she was responsible for promoting the hospital’s pediatric programs both statewide and regionally.
Duvenhage received a B.S. degree in public relations, with a minor in sociology, from the University of Florida. In 1997, she received the Professional Accreditation in Public Relations from the Florida Public Relations Association.
As an active member of the Gainesville community, Duvenhage was involved with many civic activities. She served as president of the Gainesville Kiwanis Club as state chair for the Florida District of Kiwanis International and on the board of directors for Junior Achievement of North Central Florida. She was also a team captain for the March of Dimes and the United Way of Alachua County. In addition, Duvenhage was involved with the Gainesville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Pick-An-Angel Program for Alachua County Schools.
Duvenhage also served on several committees during her time in Gainesville including the University of Florida 150th Anniversary Celebration, Gainesville City Government Issues Sub Committee and the Gator Gala’s 100 Years of Gator Football Steering Committee.
Duvenhage succeeds Ralph Schulz who led the Adventure Science Center from 1999 through October 2006.
About Adventure Science Center
For 60 years, Adventure Science Center has brought science to life for children in Middle Tennessee, Southern Kentucky, Northern Alabama and beyond. The center offers hands-on, interactive exhibits and engaging programs that encourage children of all ages to explore how science, invention and innovation affect their lives. Adventure Science Center encourages imagination and curiosity, and engages the senses in the fascinating world of science.
Adventure Science Center’s regular hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $9 for adults, and $7 for children ages 3 to 12 and seniors age 60 or older. The Science Center is located at 800 Fort Negley Blvd. For more information, call (615) 862-5160 or visit our web site at www.adventuresci.com.
