With Rob Blevins leaving to take over as chief operating officer of the Yass Prize, the Discovery Center of Springfield Inc. has a new leader.
Tyler Moles, the Discovery Center’s chief operating officer, has been selected as the fourth chief executive officer of the nonprofit science center.
“In stepping into the role of CEO at the Discovery Center of Springfield, I am deeply honored to lead an institution that stands at the forefront of inspiring the next generation,” Moles said in a press release. “It is through nurturing these young minds today that we pave the way for a brighter, more innovative future for Springfield and the Ozarks. As a community, our greatest achievements lie not just in what we build today, but in whom we inspire for tomorrow. It is our duty to make that future as bright and promising as possible.”
Moles joined the organization in 2021
Moles has worked at the Discovery Center since 2021. He previously worked for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks, where he was the president and founder of the Think Big Foundation.
“I’ve known Tyler since before he helped me get my first job in the nonprofit sector,” Blevins said in the press release. “There isn’t a harder-working or more passionate human being than Tyler. He’s also one of the most creative people I know, too, but the best thing about him is that he will do whatever it takes to serve our kids. I truly believe that the mission is in better hands and that we’re going to benefit as a community for generations to come because of not only what he is going to do as CEO but because of what he’s already done.”
As the Discovery Center’s COO, Moles helped secure the Yass Prize, a $1 million award, in 2021. He also helped build the new Jurassic Discovery — Unearthed exhibit; oversaw the planning and construction of the center’s outdoor play area; installed an indoor, interactive playground; and designed the center’s indoor recycling exhibit.
“As a board, it was an easy decision,” Discovery Center board president A.J. Exner said in the press release. “At a time when we are seeing incredible growth in both our school and our center, it only makes sense for us to maintain momentum as an organization and put our institution in Tyler’s very capable hands. His consistent ability to lead through challenges and make the most of opportunities has significantly advanced our mission. I have no doubt that with his hard work and creativity that we will grow into something that will be incredible and sustainable.”
Discovery Center also operates private school
The Discovery Center was incorporated in 1991, with founding director Emily Fox at the helm. She was replaced by Meleah Spencer in 2014. Spencer left the organization in 2018 to take over the CEO role at the Kitchen, Inc. and Blevins replaced her.
The Discovery Center attracts more than 100,000 visitors annually. It also operates an accredited private school, called the Discovery School.
