Uzzo Named Natural History Museum President, Executive Director

BREWSTER – Stephen Miles Uzzo, Ph.D., co-founder of the Woods Hole Institute with decades of experience in museum-related operations, funding, exhibits, and management, has been appointed as the new president/executive director of the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster.

The Woods Hole Institute is a nonprofit organization in the fields of science, art and humanist thought that brings diverse thinkers, researchers and artists together to address society’s most complex problems. The institute is run by Uzzo’s wife, co-founder Catherine Cramer, the granddaughter of Dr. Frank Rattray Lillie, a key figure in leading the Marine Biological Laboratory (MBL), the National Academy of Science, and one of the key founders of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) in the 1930s. Uzzo will continue to serve on the Institute’s board.

Uzzo, 68, replaces Bob Dwyer, who has headed the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History with great accomplishment for the last 19 years. In the transition, Dwyer is working closely with Uzzo and the museum’s executive committee.

Said Dwyer of Uzzo’s appointment, “I’m personally excited to see this next chapter of growth and innovation under Stephen’s leadership as the Museum continues its mission of inspiring discovery through nature, science and stewardship.”

Noted Board of Trustees Chair Ray Hebert, “Our search committee was looking for someone who would continue the legacy of our founder John Hay and all the progress Bob Dwyer has made with the acquisition of the Green Briar Nature Center and with biomimicry. Stephen Uzzo is more than a scientist. He’s committed to advancing the connection between humanity, nature and technology. Nature is the pathway to science and innovation. 

 “As an administrator, Steve brings many years of experience in museum development, media, art, collaboration, and exhibit design. We are very fortunate to have found someone so versatile and connected as Steve.”

Uzzo’s focus, Hebert says, “will be to continue building a learning organization that engages all members of the museum and community in continuous reflection and ongoing enrichments. He is committed to advancing public understanding of science and technology and has worked closely building collaborative relationships with the MBL, WHOI, and with the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Uzzo holds an advanced degree in network theory and environmental studies from Union Institute and serves on numerous institutional and advisory boards related to his research and conservation interests. He’s a passionate advocate for marine conservation — a commitment that aligns with the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History’s core values. His previous work also includes developing and teaching graduate programs in the integration of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. 

In the past, Uzzo has worked in key roles as chief scientist and director of technology at the New York Hall of Science and as chief technology officer for the National Museum of Mathematics in New York, among others.