Donald Danforth Plant Science Center President and CEO Jim Carrington, PhD, announced he will step down on July 1, 2025.
"I've been so fortunate to have had this opportunity over the past 13 years," said Dr. Carrington. "We've been able to do so much because of our exceptional people, our partners, and our supporters. But it's time to plan for a transition, and I know the Center will benefit greatly from the renewal of perspective, ideas, and talents that come with a new leader."
Penny Pennington, managing partner, Edward Jones and chair, of Danforth Center Board of Directors, will lead the search for a new President. The search process will be inclusive, actively engaging the Danforth Center community - as well as stakeholders in the St. Louis region and beyond.
"Jim followed tremendous leaders at the Center, and he has taken this remarkable institution to new heights of mission impact helping us gain renown in the field and forge new partnerships that extend worldwide," said Pennington. "We will benefit from his leadership over the next year and celebrate his impact as he approaches his retirement milestone."
Carrington has led the Danforth Center in delivering on its mission since 2011. Under his leadership, the Danforth Center has grown significantly by doubling its staff, expanding the scope of scientific research, and developing new facilities like the William H. Danforth building on the main campus and the 140-acre Field Research Site in St. Charles County. Dr. Carrington set priorities for new plant science research initiatives, and for moving the products of research into the marketplace through spin-out company formation and development of the 39North innovation district.
"Though a transition date is set, I'm not yet done," Dr. Carrington said. "I'll be working to ensure that opportunities for the next President, and for members of the Danforth Center community, are as abundant as they were for me when I started."
Source: danforthcenter.org