Lucie Howell has been named the next director of the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History.
Following seven years as chief learning officer at The Henry Ford, a museum complex in Dearborn, Howell will join UMMNH on Aug. 19.
She has led science education for more than 25 years. At The Henry Ford, Howell led strategic efforts to reposition its focus from history education to a transdisciplinary learning environment incorporating science, technology, engineering and math, and humanities disciplines.
Prior to her appointment at The Henry Ford, Howell was the STEM director at Teach for America, director of the Bristol-Myers Squibb Center for STEM Teaching and Learning at Quinnipiac University, and the academic program officer at the U-M College of Engineering’s Center for Engineering Diversity and Outreach Pipeline Development.
Howell holds a Master of Science degree from the University of London and a Master of Engineering from Imperial College. She completed her Bachelor of Engineering degree at Imperial College.
“We are thrilled to welcome Lucie Howell to the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History,” said Timothy McKay, interim dean of LSA. “The museum and its remarkable staff help the campus and community to better understand the natural world, our place in it, and our impact on it.
“Lucie’s deep commitment to public engagement and expertise in managing complex organizations will be invaluable in her role as director. We look forward to supporting her leadership and vision as she opens a new chapter for the museum.”
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Howell said she was “truly excited and honored to lead this beloved institution and build on the incredible work of the U-M Museum of Natural History’s staff, docents, advisory board and supporters.
“I am also deeply grateful for the nearly eight years I’ve spent learning from the wonderful people at The Henry Ford, which has not only deepened my knowledge of southeast Michigan communities but has also expanded my understanding and appreciation of the vital interconnections that take place among on-site learning, online learning, and community outreach.
“As I embark on this new journey, I look forward to advancing the museum’s mission by strengthening and developing those connections.”
The Museum of Natural History is housed within the Biological Sciences Building and offers unique opportunities for the U-M community and the public to engage with current U-M scientific research.
