Judy Gradwohl joined The Nat in July 2016 as the organization’s first woman president and CEO,
following more than 30 years at the Smithsonian Institution. She brought a passion for and wide range
of experience in natural history research, science communication, and museum management.
Under her leadership, the Museum developed a new strategic plan that focuses on regional science,
collections, education, and conservation. A new master plan for the building emphasizes energy
conservation, maximizing visitor experiences, safeguarding collections, and improving working
conditions for staff and volunteers.
Some of the most notable strategic shifts under Judy’s leadership include transitioning from traveling to
in-house exhibitions, developing an internal venture fund to encourage experimental thinking,
bolstering awareness of the museum’s important conservation work, and rethinking the museum’s
programming as a new blended model of onsite, online, and nature-based activities.
A native Southern Californian, Judy received her B.A. and M.A. in Zoology from the University of
California at Berkeley. Interest in tropical bird behavior took her to the Smithsonian’s Barro Colorado
Island in Panama and other parts of Central America and the Caribbean, where she conducted research
for many years.
At the Smithsonian in Washington D.C., she produced science communication at the National Zoo and
established the first substantial environmental program. Judy led the team that developed the
Smithsonian’s first web site. Her last position was as MacMillan Associate Director for Education and
Public Programs at the National Museum of American History.
She has published scientific and popular books and articles on animal behavior and ecology,
conservation, and museum practice. Her favorite days at work are when she is in the field.
