Science Central in Fort Wayne announced Thursday that its board has appointed Mandee Mikulski, who has been leading an art museum in Anderson, to serve as its executive director, effective Aug. 18.
Larry Kay, who has been serving as interim director for the hands-on center for children, called Mikulski a “visionary leader with a dynamic skill set.”
Mikulski served as executive director at The Anderson Museum of Art, where Science Central officials say she expanded the museum’s programming, strengthened community engagement and increased its visibility. She also significantly grew membership, revenue and board acquisition and retention, official said.
“Her previous nonprofit leadership experiences and her creative ideas for fundraising will serve the organization well as we continue to grow,” Kay said in a statement.
Mikulski will replace Martin Fisher, who stepped down last December after 17 years leading Science Central.
Mikulski said in a news release that she is honored to “join a team that is as passionate as I am about making learning accessible, playful and engaging for all.”
“I truly believe that learning through play is one of the most impactful ways to spark curiosity, especially when we embrace all types of learning styles,” she said. “Fort Wayne is a thriving community full of innovation and heart, and I’m excited to contribute to its growth as a place to work, live, play and explore.”