Lucy Hale is now the new president of The EcoTarium, Worcester’s museum of science and nature.

Hale has an extensive background as a nonprofit leader in the science, nature and wildlife fields, including working at the Dallas Zoo & Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park, Perot Museum of Nature and Science and Trinity River Audubon Center in Dallas, Texas.

“After a seven-month international search, Lucy emerged as our top candidate due to her expertise, results orientation and collaborative approach to leadership. Her background is the ideal mix of educator, programs/exhibits developer, curator and fundraiser,” said Paul Belsito, chairman of the EcoTarium Board of Trustees and President of Hanover Insurance Group Foundation. “We are excited about what the future holds and believe that Lucy is the right person to guide the museum into its third century.”

“I am honored to be a part of this vibrant and historic institution,” said Hale. “I am impressed by the EcoTarium’s leadership in the design and delivery of programs and exhibits that excite and engage students and support the important work of STEM educators. We have similar core values – to cultivate natural curiosity and lifelong learners from an early age. It is thrilling to join this institution at an important time for education in the Worcester community as well as the Commonwealth.”

On Aug. 20, Hale will officially begin her work at the EcoTarium and will be just in time for Countdown to Kindergarten (also on Aug. 20) and Free Fun Friday on Aug. 31. Scheduled to open in the spring of 2019, she’ll oversee the completion of Wild Cat Station and launch the final phase of the Third Century Plan campaign.

The museum will celebrate its 200^th anniversary in 2025.

EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester; open Tues.-Sat. from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday noon-5 p.m.; general admission $18, children 2-18 $14, seniors 65+ and students with valid ID $14, children under 2 are free; Planetarium shows and Explorer Express Train require additional ticket; free parking; visit ecotarium.org for more information.