Our Leadership

Jonathan Foley, PhD
Executive Director

An expert in ecosystem science and sustainability, Dr. Foley is steering the Academy through an exciting chapter in its 160-year history, leading its efforts to explore and explain the natural world while addressing critical sustainability challenges.

Elizabeth Babcock, PhD
Chief Public Engagement Officer, Roberts-Wilson Dean of Education

Responsible for creating and implementing public engagement, outreach, and education programs, Dr. Babcock seeks to ignite a lifelong curiosity about—and love for—the natural world in all who come in contact with the Academy.

Mike McGee
Chief Financial Officer  

McGee oversees strategic financial planning for the Academy, ensuring that the institution’s resources are managed wisely and aligned with its long-term strategic plan and mission.

Melissa Felder
​Chief Revenue and Marketing Officer

Felder drives museum visitorship and strengthens recognition and understanding of all that the Academy has to offer its diverse audiences through strategic marketing, public relations, sales, and partnership initiatives.

Janet Harris
Chief Philanthropy Officer

Responsible for the Academy’s fundraising and membership programs, Harris builds relationships with private, corporate, and civic supporters committed to the future of this world-class scientific institution.

Ike Kwon
Chief Operating Officer

Kwon is responsible for infrastructure, guest and building operations, and technology for the Academy. He also oversees the institution’s relationships with local government and civic and community groups.

Shannon Bennett, PhD
Chief of Science, Harry W. and Diana V. Hind Dean of Science and Research Collections

Dr. Bennett is responsible for the Academy’s programs of scientific research and exploration, as well as overseeing the Academy’s priceless collection of nearly 46 million scientific specimens from around the world.

Raul del Barco, Chief Human Resources Officer

del Barco leads the Academy’s people practices with a focus on diversity and inclusion, overseeing human resources and volunteer services for the Bay Area’s largest cultural attraction.

A governing group of approximately 450 distinguished scientists, Academy Fellows have made notable contributions to one or more of the natural sciences and help further the reach of our research and education initiatives through individual and collaborative efforts with Academy researchers. Nominated by their colleagues and selected by the Board of Trustees, Academy Fellows remain members of the Fellowship for life.