Sarah George, longtime executive director of the Natural History Museum of Utah, stepped into a new role this summer as she became the U’s Chief Philanthropy Officer-Campus.

For 27 years, George guided the museum through an extraordinary period of transformation, working with friends and partners throughout the community to open the spectacular Rio Tinto Center in 2011. The transition elevated the museum into an institution blending the highest quality education programs, visitor experiences, special exhibitions, scientific research, collections care, and statewide service with inspiring architecture in a beautiful location.

George is a leader in her field as president of the Association of Science Museum Directors and serves on the boards of the Natural Science Collections Alliance and the Association of Science-Technology Centers. Her impact reaches well beyond the walls of the museum. In 2012, the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce recognized her as a“Pathfinder”; in 2013, the Western Museums Association awarded her the Director’s Chair; and, in 2016, she received Utah’s highest civilian award, the Governor’s Medal for Science and Technology.

“It has been such an honor to lead the team that envisioned and created the Natural History Museum of Utah’s new home, the Rio Tinto Center,”says George. “The museum is in a great place, with a wonderful staff and board, so this is a good time to step away. I am looking forward to working with the terrific advancement team and leadership of the university.”