Mandy Santiago joins DelMNS as Executive Director

Mandy Santiago will join the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science as its new Executive Director, following an extensive national search. Mandy officially stepped into the role on April 7, 2025, succeeding Halsey Spruance, who has led the museum for 18 years.

Mandy will be the museum’s seventh Executive Director since it first opened to the public in 1972. She brings more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit management, fundraising, and communications, with leadership roles spanning healthcare, higher education, and the nonprofit sector. Most recently, she served as Director of Communications & Grants for ChristianaCare’s Office of Philanthropy. She previously served as Executive Director of Tyler Arboretum in Media, PA.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Skidmore College, a Master of Science in Social Service from Bryn Mawr College, and a Master of Science in Forensic Medicine from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She has also earned the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation.  

“I am incredibly honored to serve as Executive Director of the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science, and I look forward to working alongside the talented staff, board, volunteers, and supporters who bring the museum’s mission to life each and every day.
Inspiring future generations of nature and science enthusiasts has been my lifelong passion, and I am eager to partner with the community to build upon the museum’s strong foundation and Halsey’s impressive legacy.”

– Mandy Santiago

The Board of Trustees selected Mandy for her strategic vision, leadership experience, and commitment to engaging the community. “Mandy brings a dynamic combination of leadership experience and passion for mission-driven work,” said Eda Ross Montgomery, Ph.D., President of the Board of Trustees. “Her enthusiasm, expertise, and deep commitment to community engagement make her an exceptional choice to lead the museum into the future.”

As part of the transition, Halsey will continue to support the museum in an advisory role as Director Emeritus. “Leading the museum has been the honor of a lifetime, and I am incredibly proud of all we have accomplished together,” he said. “I know the museum is in great hands with Mandy at the helm, and I look forward to seeing how she and the team continue to inspire curiosity, discovery, and a love of nature and science.”