FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today, Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff (D-Norwalk) is celebrating the remarkable career of Rhonda Kiest as she steps down from her role as President and Chief Executive Officer of Stepping Stones Museum for Children.
Rhonda began her tenure in September 1999. She began her work at the Norwalk-based attraction approximately six months before the museum’s Grand Opening on March11, 2000. During her 25 years of service to Stepping Stones and the community-at-large, the children’s museum has grown into an award-winning entity that has seen more than 8 million visitors.
“Rhonda’s vision and passion transformed the museum into a beacon of culture and learning over the years for so many children in our community,” said Sen. Duff. “Her dedication and passion for learning left an incredible mark. It is always sad to see someone leave their role when they do a tremendous job but her leadership and contributions over the years will leave a lasting impact that will continue to create memories for families for years to come. Thank you Rhonda for your unwavering commitment and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.”
Rhonda oversaw several popular exhibits at the museum including Healthyville, Conservation Quest, Rainforest Adventure, Express Yourself, Energy Lab and Big Adventures: Dinosaurs. She also helped to launch several important initiatives including Open Arms, which helps provide museum access to children of all abilities and backgrounds; the public-private Healthy Children, Healthy Communities, which helps promote positive behaviors that lead to lifelong healthy habits; and the Early Language and Literacy Initiative SM (ELLI), which helps children build the learning skills necessary for future success.
Rhonda played an integral leadership role for Norwalk ACTS as the collective impact agency transitioned from a grassroots organization into an independent nonprofit. During her tenure, Stepping Stones also completed a 22,000 square-foot expansion in 2010; hosted Interactivity, the Association of Children’s Museum’s international children’s museum conference, in 2016; weathered the COVID-19pandemic, proudly reopening its doors after a 21-month hiatus in November 2021and has seen continual growth in membership and attendance.
Amanda Connell, the museum’s Vice President of Human Resources and Finance, will step in as the Interim Executive Director.
Contact: Kevin Coughlin | Kevin.Coughlin@cga.ct.gov | 203-710-0193
Share this page: