Following an extensive national search, McWane Science Center has hired Brandan Lanman as its new CEO, effective in late May. Lanman joins McWane after more than a decade of transformational leadership at the Orlando Science Center, where he played a pivotal role in expanding access to hands-on STEM learning, designing and implementing award-winning exhibits, and cultivating deep community partnerships.
“Brandan brings a remarkable blend of creativity, strategy, and passion for STEM education to McWane Science Center,” said Harrison Bishop, Chair of McWane’s Board of Trustees. A former physics teacher, Lanman is a highly respected leader in the national science museum community who brings nearly 20 years of museum, STEM, and educational experiences to McWane. As Vice President of Visitor Experience at Orlando Science Center, he led large teams in the conceptualization, design, construction and launch of major permanent exhibits including KidsTown, the STEM Discovery Center and LIFE, their newest nature and conservation exhibit. Lanman also brings extensive experience in grant management, donor relations, community building, curriculum development, and organizational operations to McWane.
“McWane Science Center has long been a beacon for science learning in Alabama and beyond,” said Lanman. “It’s an honor to step into this role at such a dynamic moment. I’m inspired by McWane’s commitment to sparking curiosity, serving educators, and driving the future of STEM in Alabama and I’m eager to lead its next chapter.”
Lanman’s arrival comes as McWane prepares for an exciting season of growth and change that will build on its 25-year legacy including the debut of Dropping Science, a groundbreaking new exhibit exploring the science of hip hop; a full lobby renovation featuring the suspension of McWane’s iconic Basilosaurus fossil; and an ambitious plan to launch new, innovative exhibits, expand programming and bring hands-on STEM experiences to tens of thousands of students and educators across the Southeast.
“We’ve spent the last 25+ years changing lives through science and wonder,” said Bishop. “Now, with Brandan at the helm, we’re ready to make our impact even bigger.”
