Leader of Fort Wayne’s Science Central to step down
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The executive director of Science Central in Fort Wayne has announced plans to step down at the end of the year, our partners at WPTA-TV reported. Martin Fisher has led the not-for-profit education center for 17 years and said in a news release that “now is the opportune time to transition.”
The not-for-profit said Fisher led Science Central from the “verge of financial collapse” to an organization that holds its first million-dollar endowment.
Fisher is credited for reducing the organization’s long-term debt and leading several capital campaigns.
“We are certainly in a much better position these days, financially, but more importantly, meeting the needs of our visitors and our region with fun, hands-on STEM education,” Fisher said. “Our visitors and sponsors will be in good hands as Science Central moves forward with finding a new Executive Director.”
Fisher did not state what his next move would be, but said in an email to The Journal Gazette that he is not retiring. He noted that he will continue in a part-time role for an additional three months to help complete a variety of projects.
Andrea Geyer, chair of the Science Central board, said a search for Fisher’s successor has begun, and Fisher will work closely with the board to assist with the transition once that person has been identified.
“An impactful leader, Martin leaves a strong legacy for the next Executive Director to continue our mission of engaging our community with hands-on science,” Geyer said.
Science Central was formed in 1987, though the physical location opened in 1995 inside the former City Light and Power building, according to the organization’s website. The facility provides a variety of hands-on, science-based programming for about 135,000 visitors annually.