Cindy Khatri has been with the museum five years, and served three as executive director; she’s leaving her position for motherhood.
Malwina Bardoni will step in as the new executive director. She received a Graduate Certificate in Museum Studies and a Masters of Anthropology from Northern Illinois University.
Khatri says she’s put a lot of effort into connecting the natural world with the DeKalb County community through different technologies, and hopes Bardoni can keep her mission flowing.
“I think a lot of people look at a museum as maybe this intimidating institution that you have to know something about to go in and learn about it," she said. "But really, museums are all about sharing what they have and being involved.”
Khatri also says the museum has faced difficulties because of the state’s budget impasse, which has led to more offsite programs. So, she says it's imperative to stay intertwined with the community.
“Use our resources to the best of their ability," she said. "So over the last three years, it’s been a focus of mine to really elevate the programming, exhibit interpretation, and become more involved with the community.”
A public open house will be hosted March 9th to say good-bye to Khatri and welcome the new executive director.