RELEASE: The Museum of Life and Science appoints three key leaders: Simone Guthrie, Disha Dewan, and Carly Apple
February 15, 2024
For Immediate Release – February 15, 2024
Media Contact:
Ro Rode, Director of Marketing and Communications
(561) 596-1410 | ro.rode@lifeandscience.org
DURHAM, NC — The Museum of Life and Science is proud to announce significant additions to its leadership as it strengthens its commitment to education, engagement, and community advancement. These appointments reflect the Museum’s aspirations to evolve and improve through dynamic and innovative leadership.
Simone Guthrie Appointed Vice President of Marketing and Communications
Simone Guthrie, a seasoned marketer with experience across multiple industries, has been appointed as the new Vice President of Marketing and Communications. Through her previous roles with Levi and Amazon Simone has gained experience developing big brand awareness strategies with a focus on building brand equity through consumer-centric efforts.
Guthrie holds a Juris Doctorate and Master of Business Administration from Howard University. “We are thrilled to welcome Simone Guthrie to our team as the Vice President for Marketing and Communications,” said Museum President and CEO Carrie Heinonen. “Her strategic vision and caring nature will elevate our Museum’s profile and engagement with the community.”
Disha Dewan Promoted to Vice President for Advancement
Disha Dewan has been promoted to the role of Vice President for Advancement, where she will spearhead the Museum’s fundraising strategy, fostering a robust culture of philanthropy. Dewan previously served as the Development Director at the Museum and at North Carolina Arts in Action.
“Disha’s extensive experience in fundraising and her passion for the Museum’s mission make her an invaluable asset to the team,” said Heinonen. “She has already made significant contributions, and I am delighted to see her take on this pivotal leadership role.”
Carly Apple Promoted to Vice President for Education and Engagement
Carly Apple, the Museum’s Director of STEM Learning since 2019, has been promoted to Vice President for Education and Engagement. Apple has helped to launch innovative STEM-rich programs and has strengthened the Museum’s partnerships with Durham Public Schools and many community organizations, including Hayti Heritage Center, Book Harvest, and El Centro Hispano.
Apple holds a Master of Science in Ecology from UNC-Chapel Hill and a BA in Environmental Studies from Emory University and has previously held educational roles with the Morehead Planetarium and UNC Hospitals. “Carly is bringing transformational leadership to our educational programming, and we are excited to see the continued impact she will make in this expanded role,” said Heinonen.
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About the Museum of Life and Science
Located less than five miles from downtown Durham, the Museum of Life and Science is one of North Carolina’s top family destinations. Our 84-acre campus includes a two-story science center, one of the largest butterfly conservatories on the East Coast, and beautifully landscaped outdoor exhibits. Our interactive experiences include Dinosaur Trail, Ellerbe Creek Railway, Hideaway Woods, Into the Mist, Earth Moves, and Aerospace, which features one of the largest collections of Apollo-era NASA artifacts in the state. The Museum is also an AZA-accredited facility, home to rescued black bears, lemurs, endangered red wolves, and more than 60 species of live animals. Last year, the Museum celebrated its 75th anniversary and its ongoing commitment to Durham, the Triangle, and North Carolina communities. To learn more, visit lifeandscience.org.
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