PRESS RELEASES

Mystic Aquarium Names Rachel Metz New President and CEO

Accomplished conservation and animal well-being executive brings nearly 30 years of leadership experience to one of the nation’s leading aquariums.

MYSTIC, CT (September 24, 2026) — Mystic Aquarium today announced that its Board of Trustees has selected Rachel Metz as the organization’s next President and Chief Executive Officer, following an extensive national search.

Metz joins Mystic Aquarium from the Zoological Society of Philadelphia (Philadelphia Zoo), where she serves as Vice President of Animal Wellbeing and Conservation. She brings nearly 30 years of leadership experience across zoological and aquarium institutions, with a career spanning animal well-being, conservation, organizational leadership, fundraising, public engagement and community partnerships.

“Rachel is an accomplished, thoughtful and inspiring leader whose experience and values are exceptionally well aligned with Mystic Aquarium and as a recognized leader in marine conservation,” said George Milne, chairman of the Mystic Aquarium Board of Trustees. “She understands that organizations like ours have an extraordinary opportunity to connect people with animals and the natural world while advancing conservation, research, education and animal wellbeing. We are excited to welcome Rachel and confident she will build on Mystic Aquarium’s strong foundation while helping us imagine what is possible for the future.”

In her current role at Philadelphia Zoo, Metz helps lead an organization that welcomes nearly one million visitors annually and has extensive experience leading complex, cross-functional teams. She has played an important role in securing millions of dollars in major gifts by connecting philanthropy with meaningful conservation outcomes. She brings significant experience in organizational transformation, fundraising, board and donor engagement, government and community relations, and building strong, mission-driven organizational cultures.

Metz said the opportunity to lead Mystic Aquarium brings together many of the passions that have shaped her career.

“I am truly honored to have the opportunity to join Mystic Aquarium,” she said. “What has stood out to me throughout this process is not only the extraordinary work happening here, but also the passion people have for this organization and its mission. I’m looking forward to getting to know the team, listening and learning, and understanding what makes Mystic special. Together, we’ll build on that strong foundation and shape what comes next.”

Metz is particularly enthusiastic about building upon Mystic Aquarium’s strengths in animal care and well-being, its Animal Rescue Program, research and conservation partnerships, education programs and immersive guest experiences. She sees opportunities to bring those strengths together in new ways that expand the Aquarium’s impact while strengthening the organization for the future.

“Rachel brings the combination of mission commitment, leadership experience and vision we were seeking in Mystic Aquarium’s next CEO,” said Tom Marra, Board Chair-Elect. “Throughout the search process, we were impressed not only by what Rachel has accomplished, but by how she leads. She is collaborative, curious and deeply committed to people as well as the mission. We believe she is the right leader for an exciting new chapter at Mystic Aquarium.”

Metz will succeed Susette Tibus, who has led Mystic Aquarium since April 2023 and has been a recognized leading champion for the Aquarium for decades. “Without Susette’s leadership, enthusiasm, engagement and contributions to its conservation, education, research and animal care mission we would not be the leader we now are,” said Milne. “It has been my pleasure to serve alongside her during this key period.”

“It has been one of the greatest privileges of my career to serve Mystic Aquarium and work alongside such an extraordinary team,” said Tibus, who previously served as vice chair of the Board. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and deeply grateful for the commitment and passion our staff brings to this mission every day. I am confident that Rachel will be an outstanding leader for Mystic Aquarium and will help guide the organization to great success in the years ahead.”

Metz will join Mystic Aquarium later this year. Her official start date will be announced in the coming weeks. The Board and Aquarium leadership will work closely with Metz to ensure a thoughtful and seamless transition.

ABOUT MYSTIC AQUARIUM

Mystic Aquarium, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, is one of the world’s leading aquariums, offering exemplary care to a variety of species while also serving as the northeast’s premier marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation center. Robust conservation and education programming and unparalleled visitor experiences strengthen personal connections to the animals and their environments. Mystic Aquarium’s mission is to inspire people to care for and protect the ocean planet through conservation, education, and research, and introduces approximately 800,000 guests annually to thousands of animals through structured interpretation, especially curated exhibits, and hands-on interactions. As a leading research organization, Mystic Aquarium employs a full staff of scientists engaged in projects focused on the ocean planet’s conservation and sustainability. For more information about Mystic Aquarium, please visit www.mysticaquarium.org.