Museum of Discovery announces new executive director
Little Rock, Ark. – Museum of Discovery recently announced a leadership transition, naming Josh Annett as executive director. Annett has been part of Museum of Discovery for more than 14 years and will lead the institution as it prepares to celebrate its centennial in 2027 and looks toward its next century of service to Arkansas. Annett succeeds Steven Schnell as executive director of the Museum of Discovery. The museum thanks Schnell for his service and dedication to the institution and its mission. Annett joined Museum of Discovery in 2012 following nearly eight years in the United States Air Force, where he served as a C-130 flying crew chief. Since joining the museum, he has grown into a central leadership role within the institution, overseeing exhibits, facilities, capital projects, safety, technology, infrastructure, traveling exhibitions, and long-range planning. His military service and experience at the Museum have shaped a leadership approach grounded in preparation, focus, problem-solving and a commitment to the people around him. “Josh has been an important part of the Museum of Discovery for more than a decade, and the board has seen firsthand the thoughtfulness and determination he brings to his work, taking on complex challenges, bringing people together and following through on the museum’s goals,” says Megan Eves, chair of the Museum of Discovery Board of Directors. “We have tremendous confidence in his leadership and are excited to support him as he guides the Museum into this next chapter.” Annett played a central role in the museum’s recovery following a catastrophic flood in February 2021, which left large portions of the Museum and its galleries in ruins. Annett led recovery and reconstruction effort that allowed the museum to reopen within seven months. He then led the planning and implementation of a major capital renovation that transformed five galleries. Annett was intentional about creating spaces where families could experience and learn together, developing highly original exhibits while incorporating emerging technologies and innovative approaches to help position Museum of Discovery at the forefront of the evolving museum landscape.
LRRC 44th Annual MED Week Awards Join the Little Rock Regional Chamber for the 44th Annual MED Week Awards Luncheon, celebrating the minority-owned businesses, nonprofit organizations and young professionals making a meaningful impact across Central Arkansas. This year’s finalists represent the innovation, leadership and entrepreneurial spirit that continue to strengthen our region. Help us celebrate these outstanding honorees and find out who will take home this year’s awards! Minority Young Professional of the Year • Kierra Pippin — Literary Freedom Publishing • Ernest Banks — Polk Stanley Wilcox • Kiana Waits — VCC Construction Minority-Led Nonprofit of the Year • Arkansas Community Action Agencies Association • The KKAC Organization • Building Bridges Emerging Minority Business of the Year • Hairpins • Plaza Frida • TruClean Arkansas Thursday, September 24, 2026 @ 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Mosaic Templars Cultural Center 501 West 9th Street Little Rock, AR 72201