The Museum of Discovery is pleased to announce the appointment of J. Michael Nauman as interim CEO following the departure of Kelley Bass. The museum thanks Bass for his 12 years of dedicated service and leadership.
Nauman brings 15 years of dedicated service as a museum board member and a Discovery Network supporter. He steps into this role to ensure a smooth transition while continuing to advance the museum’s mission of igniting a passion for science, technology, engineering, arts, and math through engaging, hands-on experiences.
With over 35 years of experience in commercial leadership, including roles as President of Brady Corporation and Executive Vice President of Molex Incorporated, Nauman offers valuable strategy and community engagement expertise to guide the museum’s next chapter. A comprehensive search is underway to identify the best candidate for the museum’s permanent CEO role.
“Michael has been an advocate for the museum’s mission for many years, and we are confident in his ability to lead us forward,” says Board Chair Melissa Bandy. “We appreciate his willingness to step into this role and guide us through this transition.”

As the museum moves into this new chapter, it remains dedicated to its mission through events like the upcoming Spark! fundraiser, featuring a luncheon on November 4 and a gala on November 12. Spark! plays a vital role in supporting the museum’s efforts to inspire a passion for STEM and provide hands-on learning opportunities for students across Arkansas.
Additionally, the museum remains committed to its Reimagination Campaign, which will bring all-new galleries to its River Market location for the first time since 1998. On Saturday, November 23, guests can be among the first to explore Small Fry Fish Camp and Curiosity Spot as the new galleries open to the public. These interactive spaces provide hands-on learning experiences, sparking curiosity and discovery for the museum’s youngest visitors.
“I am honored to support the talented team at the Museum of Discovery during this time of transition,” says interim CEO Michael Nauman. “Together, we will continue to provide engaging and educational experiences for our visitors while building a bright future for the museum.”
For more information, contact Becca Bona, chief marketing officer, at 501.537.3078 or bbona@museumofdiscovery.org. For more information about Museum of Discovery, visit www.museumofdiscovery.org.