Maryann Barry appointed CEO of SpaceKids Global to lead STEAM education and space exploration efforts

SpaceKids Global, a nonprofit focused on inspiring elementary school children to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM), has named Maryann Barry as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Barry, who previously served as CEO of the Girl Scouts of Citrus Council, will now guide the organisation’s efforts to expand STEAM education and promote interest in space-related careers.

Barry has worked with SpaceKids Global’s founder, Sharon Hagle, over the past eight years on various programs designed to encourage children’s participation in STEAM education. Hagle, who will transition to Board Chair, explained that Barry’s experience in nonprofit leadership aligns with the organisation’s goals.

“To position SpaceKids Global for future growth, it is important to engage an experienced leader in nonprofit youth education and outreach,” Hagle said. “Maryann’s expertise aligns perfectly with our mission to expand capacity and inspire more children to pursue careers in space and technology.”

Barry, who has extensive experience in educational leadership and youth development, will now oversee SpaceKids Global’s initiatives to address the growing demand for professionals in STEM fields, particularly in the aerospace industry.

She commented, “I had the pleasure of working directly with Sharon on several joint STEAM programs. I quickly came to see that SpaceKids’ mission is of critical importance to our nation’s ability to meet the expanding demand for STEAM professionals, especially in the aerospace industry.”

Barry has been recognised for her contributions to nonprofit leadership with awards including Nonprofit Leader of the Year and the Lawton Chiles Child Advocacy Award. In her new role, she will focus on expanding SpaceKids Global’s reach and increasing its impact on STEAM education across the country.

The organisation has already reached over 867,000 students through its programs and aims to inspire more children to explore careers in space and technology. Its mission is to help fill the 3.5 million STEM job vacancies predicted by 2025.

Barry concluded, “The future of our planet, space exploration, and quality of life is 100% dependent upon how we inspire and educate our children today. I am thrilled to join the SpaceKids Crew and honoured to have been entrusted with leading this critical mission.”