PRESS RELEASES

Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose Appoints Linda Tsai as New CEO

San Jose, Calif. — Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose is proud to announce the appointment of Linda Tsai as its new President and Chief Executive Officer.

A seasoned nonprofit executive with deep roots in San Jose and Silicon Valley, Tsai brings more than two decades of leadership experience in museums, philanthropy, and mission-driven organizations. She most recently served as Senior Vice President and Senior Executive Director at the American Heart Association in Los Angeles, where her team consistently exceeded goals in fundraising, community impact, and brand engagement. Tsai’s career also includes senior leadership roles at The Tech Interactive, where she helped lead strategic planning and major fundraising initiatives, as well as executive positions at two national foundations.

“I’ve dedicated my career to strengthening organizations that open doors for children and families,” Tsai said. “Leading this beloved institution is both a professional calling and a personal joy, and I look forward to expanding its reach so more young people can build confidence, think creatively, and see themselves as capable of shaping the world around them.”

Tsai was selected following a rigorous national search led by the museum’s Board search committee and conducted by Shelli Herman and Associates, Inc., distinguishing herself among a strong field of candidates. She succeeds Executive Director Marilee Jennings, who is retiring after an extraordinary 35-plus year career serving children and families since the museum’s founding.

“Our search committee was truly impressed by Linda’s strategic vision, collaborative leadership style, and deep commitment to mission-driven work,” said Cindy Loggins, Search Chair of the Museum Board of Directors. “After a thoughtful national search, I could not be more proud of where we landed. Linda is stepping into a role shaped by a remarkable 35-year legacy, and she brings the heart, experience, and vision to honor that foundation while leading Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose into its next chapter of growth, community impact, and inspiration.”

Tsai’s connection to the Museum is also deeply personal. As a longtime member, Tsai visited the Museum weekly with her four children as they were growing up, watching them explore exhibits like WaterWays and the Wonder Cabinet. “The Children’s Discovery Museum helped shape my children’s lives,” Tsai said. “It is my distinct privilege to return to serve an institution that has given so much to my family and to millions of families across the Bay Area.”

“Linda brings both exceptional leadership experience and a heartfelt connection to Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose,” said Monica Nayar, Board Chair. “As a parent and longtime supporter, she understands the powerful impact of hands-on learning. The Board is thrilled to welcome her and is confident she will build on the Museum’s strong legacy while inspiring the next generation of innovators and strengthening our community.”

As President and CEO, Tsai will first focus on listening and learning from staff, Board members, and the community, while building on the Museum’s strong legacy. She is committed to advancing the Museum’s mission of inspiring creativity, curiosity, and lifelong learning through hands-on play. Under her leadership, the Museum will continue to celebrate culture, strengthen community connections, and nurture the next generation of visionaries in Silicon Valley. Tsai will join the Museum on March 16, 2026.

With gratitude for the legacy of retiring Executive Director Marilee Jennings and the dedication of the Museum’s staff and Board, Children’s Discovery Museum looks ahead to an exciting new chapter.