#United States #Denver #Smithsonian #Denver Museum #Kirk Johnson

Denver Museum of Nature & Science Welcomes Kirk Johnson as President and CEO

On October 1, 2026, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science made a significant announcement that promises to reshape its future. The Board of Trustees appointed Kirk Johnson, who has been the Sant Director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History since 2012, as its new president and chief executive officer. Johnson is set to officially take the helm on February 1, 2027, succeeding George Sparks, who will retire at the end of January 2027.

A Leader of Distinction

During his tenure at the Smithsonian, Johnson has overseen one of the world’s most visited museums, managing an impressive collection of nearly 149 million specimens and artifacts. Under his leadership, the museum has welcomed around 4 million visitors annually and has launched major exhibitions, including the noteworthy David H. Koch Hall of Fossils – Deep Time, which connects the history of life on Earth to humanity's future.

With his vast experience, the Board of Trustees believes Johnson is the right choice to lead the museum into its next chapter. Jena Hausmann, chair of the Board, stated, "Kirk is well known to this Museum and respected on the international stage. His experience leading a major natural history museum aligns perfectly with the direction we envision for our future."

Johnson's ties to Colorado deepen his connection to the Museum, as he previously spent over two decades with the institution before his esteemed role at the Smithsonian. His remarkable journey began in various capacities, ultimately becoming chief curator and vice president of research and collections. He co-led the Snowmastodon excavation in Snowmass Village, which marked a significant moment in paleontological studies.

A Deep-rooted Connection

Expressing his excitement about returning, Johnson remarked, "The Denver Museum of Nature & Science shaped me as a scientist, science communicator, and museum leader. I am delighted to be coming home and eager to reunite with the exceptional people who make this Museum extraordinary."

With an extensive publication record, including 17 books and numerous television documentaries like the NOVA series, Johnson has proven himself not only as a leading scientist but also as an effective communicator of complex scientific ideas. His academic background includes a bachelor’s degree from Amherst College, a master’s from the University of Pennsylvania, and a doctorate from Yale University.

A Vision for the Future

Current CEO George Sparks praised Johnson as an extraordinary scientific leader and colleague, noting that his knowledge of the community and region will prove invaluable as the Museum embarks on new initiatives. The selection committee, led by Rick Ambrose, further emphasized the importance of finding a leader who could honor the Museum's legacy while guiding it into its next era.

The committee undertook a comprehensive search process in collaboration with Spencer Stuart, ensuring that candidates aligned with the Board's leadership expectations. Ambrose stated, "Kirk brings a unique combination of deep roots in this community along with proven international leadership."

About the Denver Museum of Nature & Science

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science has long been a pillar of science education in the Rocky Mountain region. Through its exhibitions, programs, research, and collections, the Museum endeavors to help the public understand, appreciate and value the natural world. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, it thrives with the support of the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District.

As Kirk Johnson prepares to take on his new role, all eyes will be on the Denver Museum of Nature & Science as it enters an exciting new chapter in its storied history. For more information about the museum and upcoming programs, visit dmns.org.