Jennifer Hayden Named President and CEO of the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History

The National Museum of Nuclear Science & History Board of Trustees announced recently that Jennifer J. Hayden has been named president and chief executive officer. Hayden succeeds Jim Walther, who was executive director of the Nuclear Museum for 26 years. Walther retired in March of 2023.

Hayden has had several roles at the Nuclear Museum, most recently as deputy director. Hayden began her career at the museum in 2009 as the events and facility rental coordinator, transitioning to graphic designer and marketing associate in 2011. In 2013 she was named director of communications. In 2020 she assumed the role of deputy director, along with her role as director of communications.

“Jennifer is an accomplished Museum professional with the creativity, expertise, and vision to lead the Museum into the future, and we are excited to work alongside her in this new capacity,” said Abdiel Ramirez, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “Jennifer will continue advancing the Museum’s mission by inspiring and supporting staff members and fostering new local, national, and international relationships. This focus will drive the Museum’s efforts to provide a world-class experience for visitors to learn about nuclear science’s past, present, and future.”

“I am deeply honored to be chosen as President and CEO,” said Hayden. “Leading the museum to even greater heights has been an aspiration of mine. I am excited to build upon the museum’s rich history and strong foundation. I am grateful for the confidence of our Board of Trustees.”

A native of Amarillo, Texas, Hayden earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Texas Tech University and her master’s degree in museum studies at the University of Oklahoma.

Hayden brings a wide range of experience to her role from both the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors. Before working at the Nuclear Museum, Hayden worked in sales at a Fortune 500 company. She recently was on the board of directors for Cuidando Los Ninos for nine years, chairing multiple committees and sitting as President in 2021. A frequent guest on local affiliate KRQE morning show, Hayden makes science and technology accessible to everyone through on-air science experiments.

Hayden lives in Albuquerque with her husband, Matt, and her two sons.