Space & Rocket Center CEO stepping down after successful tenure

Published 11:00 am Sunday, December 8, 2019

Deborah Barnhart

The head of the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville will be stepping down from the position after a successful tenure, according to a press release.

Deborah Barnhart, chief executive officer and executive director, has served in the role for nine years. Her departure is effective Dec. 31.

The release said she would “pursue missions” in Washington D.C., Denmark and the Gulf Coast and will retain a home in Huntsville.

“On behalf of the Alabama Space and Science Exhibit Commission, I want to say how grateful we are to Dr. Barnhart for her strong leadership, creative vision, devoted service and unmatched legacy,” said John Nerger, chairman of ASSEC. “She has earned the respect and admiration of so many throughout the Tennessee Valley, the state of Alabama and across the country. Hers are difficult shoes to fill, so we will work hard to identify and select a worthy successor.”

Nerger also noted Barnhart’s infectious enthusiasm and far-reaching vision in a tenure that has seen an 89 percent increase in gross revenue and record-breaking Space Camp attendance. She leaves the center after the “stellar success” of the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11 celebration, with attendance reaching more than a million visitors for the first time, the release said.

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“It has been my honor and a pleasure to serve this institution and the state of Alabama,” Barnhart said. “The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is the center of our community and the icon of our mutual achievement. Our work has influenced millions around the world to new personal heights. There is no more satisfying legacy than the accomplishments of our Space Camp alumni, the national pride we inspire in our visitors as they learn about the amazing work underway by Team Redstone.”

In addition to her time as CEO and executive director, Barnhart previously served as director of Space Camp from 1986 to 1990.

Louie Ramirez, a longtime center leader who has served as its chief financial officer, will serve as interim CEO until Barnhart’s replacement is named. ASSEC has named Barnhart CEO emeritus, and she will advise and support the recruitment and hiring of a new CEO, a process that is expected to take 60 to 90 days.