Discovery World, Wisconsin’s largest science and technology center, announced today that, in light of President and CEO Joel Brennan’s appointment as the new Wisconsin Secretary of the Department of Administration under Governor-elect Tony Evers, John Emmerich will be leading the organization on an interim basis, effective Jan. 7.

"The Board is thankful for Joel’s years of service and leadership, helping establish Discovery World as a vibrant, sustainable organization, critical to educating Milwaukee’s future leaders," said Dennis Krakau, Discovery World’s Board Chair.

"Joel has done a tremendous job growing Discovery World over the last decade and we are confident that new leadership can continue to build upon the foundation of success that he has helped establish."

With more than a decade of experience at Discovery World, most recently as Vice President of Exhibits and Audience Engagement, John Emmerich will assume the Interim President and CEO role, maintaining donor relationships and overseeing operational and growth plans.

The Discovery World Board of Directors is establishing a search committee, which will be led by Mary Jo Layden and tasked with identifying a permanent President and CEO of Discovery World.

"It has been an enormous privilege to have led Discovery World during an important period of transformation and growth," said Brennan. "I’m confident that I’m leaving Discovery World in excellent fiscal health and very capable hands."