Linda Hall Library has announced the appointment of its new president, Eric Dorfman, Ph.D. Selected after a national search by the Library’s Board of Trustees, his tenure as president will begin in July 2023. “I am thrilled to join one of the most prestigious science institutions in the United States. The long-standing vision of the Hall and Bartlett families to support the pursuit of knowledge, along with their investment in world-class collections, have created a truly remarkable resource locally and internationally. The Library acts as a beacon of science for the region and builds on Kansas City’s commitment to being an intersection of arts, culture, and innovation,” said Dorfman. “I am excited by the potential of the Library and look forward to continuing the legacy of President Lisa Browar and her talented staff, donors and supporters, and the dedicated board of trustees. It will be my honor to ensure the Library flourishes, expanding the horizons of this unique institution.”

Dorfman joins Linda Hall Library after an illustrious career in higher education, conservation, research and natural history museum leadership. Most recently, he served as the director and chief executive officer of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and as a research professor in the Department of Marine, Earth and Atmospheric Sciences at North Carolina State University. Previously, Dorfman was director of Pittsburgh’s Carnegie Museum of Natural History. His career has been marked by innovative institutional transformation and a dedication to maintaining their historic stature.

In addition to institutional leadership, Dorfman is active internationally, most recently serving as an executive board member of the International Council of Museums (ICOM). Dorfman’s publications include books and articles covering topics ranging from curating cultural history to the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Ecology, Behavior and Evolution from the University of California San Diego, a Master of Marine Science from the Moss Landing Marine Laboratories at San Jose State University and a Doctor of Philosophy in Ecology from the University of Sydney in Sydney, Australia. “We are delighted to welcome Eric to the Linda Hall,” said Marilyn Bartlett Hebenstreit, chair of the board of trustees. “He will bring a new perspective to the leadership of the Library. He is a scientist, professor and author passionate about community engagement, education and conservation. Eric has directed three museums throughout his career, and I’m confident his vision will enhance the Linda Hall’s legacy and reputation as the place Where Science Lives.” As president, Dorfman succeeds Lisa Browar, who led the Linda Hall Library for 15 years.