CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The Virginia Discovery Museum is searching for a new executive director.

Current director Janine Dozier is leaving the position after 10 years, the organization announced last week. For the museum, a staple of the Downtown Mall since 1981, Dozier’s leadership brought expansion and longevity, as the nonprofit survived financial instability and extended its programming to support Central Virginia families.

“She’s absolutely transformed the museum,” Jennifer Eberline, outgoing museum board chair said. “She’s just brought it into such an era of stability.”

Taking over the role in 2015, Dozier’s background in finance was a boost for the museum as it navigated challenges like the loss of in-person visitors during the COVID pandemic and achieving economic longevity, culminating in an endowment — the museum’s first — to support operations for the future. 

“Applying her financial background and wisdom was just a huge gain for the museum during that time,” Eberline said.

The museum also pursued projects to remain part of the cultural fabric of Charlottesville, as its programming in math, science and the arts aim to aid child development and expanded under Dozier to include older children and teenagers.

A total renovation of the physical space, refurbishing the carousel outside of the building in 2022 and connecting with community partners and the University of Virginia have further integrated the museum as an institution of the Downtown Mall as well as the surrounding region.

“The museum is an important part of the cultural infrastructure of Charlottesville,” Dozier said. “Not only is it an important resource for local families, it’s also a major driver of tourism in the region for families from not just throughout Virginia, but all over the country.” 

An uptick in annual visitors from 45,000 to 65,000 has elevated the museum’s reach at a crucial time, as Dozier commented that children’s museums and museums in general are more needed than ever to support parents and caregivers as childcare can be difficult and isolating without support.

“Working at the Virginia Discovery Museum reminds me every day of how many people are seeking out connection, particularly when it comes to supporting children,” Dozier said. “The museum galleries are filled with parents, grandparents and caregivers, swapping notes on everything from sleep training to which playgrounds have the best sprinklers.” 

Adding an internship program for teenagers and programming like summer camps and date-night drop offs has also shown visitors that the museum’s capabilities go beyond day trips.

“Children’s museums are great place to learn and play, but they’re not just for children,” Dozier said. “They also support adults in making those vital social connections and sharing information that is so important in life… museums are a critical third space.”

As Dozier plans to end her time at the museum in September, the nonprofit will be searching for candidates for a new executive director in the coming months — but her tenure has left the museum in a secure position as it looks toward the future.

“She’s made a small but mighty place into something incredible,” Eberline said.