Carnegie Science Center names new director

Teghan Simonton | Thursday, February 13, 2020 4:23 p.m.

Nate Smallwood | Tribune-Review

Jason Brown was named the Henry Buhl, Jr., Director of Carnegie Science Center.

Jason Brown was named director of the Carnegie Science Center on Thursday.

Brown has served as the interim director of the Science Center since December 2018. He took the position following the retirement of former co-directors Ann Metzger and Ron Baillie. Before then, he was senior director of science education.

“I am ecstatic to be presented with this opportunity to lead such an important organization and committed team,” Brown said in a statement Thursday. “I look forward to ensuring that we continue to inspire all our audiences using the excitement and awe that only science can conjure.”

Brown started at the Science Center in March 2014 as director of science and education. In the last six years, he led a team to launch the BNY Mellon Fab Lab, a design program for students that employs 3D printers, laser and vinyl cutters and other tools. He also facilitated the creation of the Teaching Excellence Academy and the expansion of the Carnegie STEM Excellence Pathway, partnering with schools to improve education practices in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Under Brown, the latter program grew from three participating schools to more than 800 schools and districts in 31 states and 13 countries.

“He understands the power of the Science Center to be a true partner in learning for educators throughout and beyond the Pittsburgh region,” Steven Knapp, president and CEO of Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, said in a statement.