The Arizona Science Center has appointed a familiar face as its new CEO. Tammy Stewart, who has been serving as the interim CEO since last fall, has officially taken on the role of Hazel A. Hare president and CEO.
In a recent studio visit, Stewart shared insights into her vision for the science center and discussed her passion for the organization. The conversation began with Stewart explaining her enthusiasm for leading the Arizona Science Center.
Stewart’s Vision and Experience
TAMMY STEWART: Oh, that could take a whole show. No, truly for me, I’ve been in the arts and culture sector for over 25 years, but when I came to the Science Center nine years ago, I felt like I had found my home.
Stewart, who started her career in IT and technology, transitioned to the nonprofit sector before joining the Science Center. She expressed her excitement about working with a team that creates impactful learning experiences for the community. “I actually couldn’t think of a more ideal place to be,” she said.
MARK BRODIE: How do you see the role of the Science Center in this community at this particular time?
TAMMY STEWART: That is kind of an ever-evolving idea. But I would say part of it is to be a center in our community that is bringing the latest science, technology, engineering and math — conversations, subjects — in an accessible way for both students but also for adults.
With rapidly advancing technologies like artificial intelligence and semiconductors, Stewart emphasized the Science Center’s role in educating both children and adults on these topics, alongside traditional subjects like physics and chemistry.
Innovative Exhibits and Future Plans
Recently, the center collaborated with a local autonomous vehicle company to showcase the lidar system technology used in self-driving cars, giving the community insights into how these vehicles operate. Additionally, the SEMIquest exhibition on semiconductors, in partnership with the SEMI Foundation, is currently on display, with plans for a permanent gallery in the future.
Stewart shared a memorable moment when a young girl was captivated by the semiconductor exhibit, exemplifying the center’s role in sparking curiosity and learning. “She put on a bunny suit, she jumped into the clean room and she started to explore,” Stewart recalled.
MARK BRODIE: What would you like to be able to do at the Science Center that you’ve not been able to do, or it hasn’t been able to do?
TAMMY STEWART: Oh yeah. We have grand plans, the entire team. And some of it I’m going to keep secret so you can bring me back, but we are we are looking at a a full renewal of our building and bringing in those subjects that I talked about — artificial intelligence, semiconductors — but also renewing the other galleries and bringing some new exhibits, new opportunities to have some interactive experiences.
Financial Sustainability and Community Engagement
As a nonprofit, the center continually explores diverse revenue sources to ensure financial sustainability. Stewart acknowledged the challenges of securing funding amid competition for limited resources but remained optimistic about the community’s philanthropic support and the potential to attract new audiences through engaging experiences.
Stewart also highlighted the recent transformation of the planetarium into the Dorrance Dome, describing it as an unparalleled experience. “I’ve tried for two years to talk about how amazing the experience is going to be and when people walk in now they look at me and go, ‘Oh, now I know what you’re talking about,'” she said.
MARK BRODIE: How much are you thinking about specifically this place and how much are you thinking about just science more broadly?
TAMMY STEWART: I love that question because you are actually thinking exactly what we are thinking about right now. And one of our new experiences that will be opening up later this year is a gallery that is dedicated to Arizona’s water story.
Stewart emphasized the importance of addressing regional topics like Arizona’s water story while integrating scientific and technological perspectives to educate both local residents and visitors.
MARK BRODIE: All right, that is Tammy Stewart, the Hazel A. Hare CEO and president of the Arizona Science Center. Tammy, thanks so much.
TAMMY STEWART: Thank you so much.
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