7-30-26 | Dr. Ray Vandiver, President ~ St. Louis Science Center

Dr. Ray Vandiver

President and CEO

Born and raised in the St. Louis area, Dr. Ray Vandiver returned to his hometown in February 2025 to serve as President and CEO of the Saint Louis Science Center. In this role, he leads a dedicated team committed to executing the organization’s strategic plan and advancing its mission: to inspire everyone to be curious and engaged in science.

With more than 30 years of experience in science and children’s museums, Ray has transformed institutions through strategic leadership, impactful community engagement, and innovative informal science experiences. His passion for science education began at an early age, fueled by family visits to the McDonnell Planetarium, an experience that helped shape his lifelong dedication to informal science learning.

Ray’s academic foundation includes a bachelor’s degree in physics from Saint Louis University and master’s and doctoral degrees in physics from Missouri University of Science and Technology. His early career in physics research eventually led him to the world of science centers, where he discovered a passion for creating engaging, hands-on learning experiences that make science accessible to all.

Prior to joining the Science Center, Ray served for over 12 years as the founding Executive Director of Discovery Lab in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he led the transformation of a small start-up museum into a nationally recognized institution. Before that, he was Vice President of the Center for Learning Experiences at the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI), overseeing one of the nation’s leading exhibits and science education programs. He also served as founding Executive Director of the Bootheel Youth Museum in Malden, Missouri, demonstrating his expertise in growing and sustaining science-based institutions.

Now at the helm of the Science Center, Ray is focused on expanding innovation, accessibility, and collaboration—ensuring that the institution remains a leading force in inspiring curiosity and discovery for future generations.