The Linda Hall Announces Leadership Transition
KANSAS CITY, MO. (October 1, 2026) – The Board of Trustees of The Linda Hall: Science Library and Arboretum announced today that Eric Dorfman, Ph.D., has resigned as president and CEO, effective this month. Anne C. Dema, Ph.D., chair of the Board of Trustees, will serve as interim president and CEO while the Board conducts a national search for the organization’s next leader.
Eric Dorfman joined The Linda Hall in July 2023 and helped guide the organization through an important period of growth and evolution. During his tenure, the Library introduced its 2025–2027 Strategic Plan, expanded the reach of its public programs and exhibitions, continued building its internationally significant collections, increased participation in the Kansas City Invention Convention, and advanced plans for the Library’s Arboretum and long-term sustainability.
“Leading The Linda Hall has been a privilege, and I am grateful to the staff, Board, scholars, supporters and community partners who bring its mission to life each day,” said Eric Dorfman. “Together, we have strengthened the Library’s foundation, expanded its reach, and created a clear path forward. I am proud of what we have accomplished and confident that The Linda Hall will continue to inspire curiosity, advance knowledge, and connect people with science in meaningful ways.”
The Linda Hall’s strategic plan is centered on a purpose to deepen humanity’s understanding and appreciation of science and its integral role in shaping the world. Its priorities include growing and leveraging the organization’s physical, digital, and living collections; expanding its local and global influence; strengthening the institution; and investing in a more sustainable future.
“We are grateful to Eric for his service and for the important work completed during his time at The Linda Hall,” said Anne Dema. “Because of my love for this institution and my confidence in its talented team, I am honored to accept the Board’s invitation to serve as interim president and CEO. The Linda Hall remains fiscally and operationally strong, and we will maintain our momentum, continue advancing our strategic plan, and remain focused on the work that has made The Linda Hall such an important center of knowledge, discovery, and inspiration. The Board is committed to conducting a thoughtful national search for an exceptional leader who will guide the organization into its next chapter.”
Anne Dema joined The Linda Hall Board of Trustees in 2019, became vice chair in 2022, and assumed the role of chair in 2024. Before joining the Board, she served for more than two decades at William Jewell College, including as professor of chemistry, vice president for institutional effectiveness, chief of staff, and provost.
“Anne Dema brings a deep knowledge of The Linda Hall, a genuine commitment to its people and mission, and extensive experience in academic and institutional leadership,” said Marilyn Bartlett Hebenstreit, past chair of the Board of Trustees. “Her willingness to step forward provides continuity and stability at an important moment. I have every confidence in Anne, the Board, and the Library’s outstanding staff as they continue this work and prepare for the organization’s next leader.”
Now celebrating its 80th anniversary, The Linda Hall is building on a legacy of preserving and sharing scientific knowledge while working to become a more visible, welcoming, and connected institution. Its strategic direction calls for broadening the Library’s reach, deepening its impact, and inviting more people to engage with science, discovery, and the pursuit of knowledge.
“The Linda Hall is a singular institution, with collections and expertise that connect the history of scientific discovery to the questions shaping our future,” said Alejandro Sánchez Alvarado, a member of the Board of Trustees, and President, Chief Scientific Officer, and Investigator of the Stowers Institute. “The Board strongly supports Anne’s leadership and the talented team carrying the Library’s work forward. We enter this transition with confidence in the organization’s mission, its strategic direction, and its ability to identify an outstanding next leader.”
The Board will share additional information about the national search as it becomes available. Throughout the leadership transition, The Linda Hall will continue advancing its strategic priorities and providing access to its collections, exhibitions, research resources, educational programs, and Arboretum.
