Cox Science Center and Aquarium names Kurt Allen as CEO amid expansion

The center's $150 million expansion will increase the facility from 35,000 to over 100,000 square feet.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:08pm

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A bold, abstract painting in soft blues, greens, and oranges featuring sweeping geometric shapes and intersecting waveforms, conceptually representing the complex scientific forces and innovations behind the expansion of the Cox Science Center and Aquarium.An ambitious expansion project will transform the Cox Science Center and Aquarium into a state-of-the-art facility focused on inspiring the next generation through immersive science education.West Palm Beach Today

The Cox Science Center and Aquarium in West Palm Beach, Florida has appointed Kurt Allen as its new Chief Executive Officer. Allen brings over 35 years of leadership experience in hospitality, tourism and aquarium operations as the organization advances a major expansion initiative that will increase the facility from 35,000 to over 100,000 square feet.

Why it matters

The Cox Science Center and Aquarium's expansion is a significant investment in science education and community engagement in the West Palm Beach area. Allen's extensive experience in leading the development and opening of new aquarium facilities will be crucial in guiding the center through this transformative growth period.

The details

As the new CEO, Allen's focus will be on overseeing the construction of the new state-of-the-art facility while leading the team in creating 'the number one science center in the country.' The expansion is supported by a $150 million capital campaign, of which $135 million has already been raised. Planned enhancements include floor-to-ceiling aquatic habitats, an interactive extended-reality experience, and expanded classrooms and wet lab facilities.

  • Allen officially assumed the CEO role on March 9, 2026.
  • Construction on the expansion began in May 2024.
  • Completion of the expansion is anticipated in 2027.

The players

Kurt Allen

The new Chief Executive Officer of the Cox Science Center and Aquarium, bringing over 35 years of leadership experience in hospitality, tourism and aquarium operations.

Eric Stonestrom

The chair of the Cox Science Center and Aquarium's board of trustees.

Cox Science Center and Aquarium

A science center and aquarium located in West Palm Beach, Florida that is undergoing a major $150 million expansion project.

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What they’re saying

“As the incoming CEO, my focus will be on overseeing the construction of our new state-of-the-art facility while leading our team in creating the number one science center in the country. Our goal is to create a scientific playground where children's imaginations run wild through exploration and conservation.”

— Kurt Allen, Chief Executive Officer

“Kurt's leadership comes at a defining moment for the Cox Science Center and Aquarium. He understands how to build immersive experiences that inspire, engage and educate, and how to lead with excellence, integrity and inclusivity.”

— Eric Stonestrom, Chair of the Board of Trustees

“I see the transformation of the Cox Science Center and Aquarium as a project that will make an immense impact on our children and our children's children. Science is the building block of our future.”

— Kurt Allen, Chief Executive Officer

What’s next

The center remains open during construction and continues to offer interactive exhibits, an outdoor science trail and daily programming at the Cox Amphitheater. Its current traveling exhibition, Top Secret: License to Spy, will remain on display through May 3, 2026.

The takeaway

The Cox Science Center and Aquarium's major expansion project, led by new CEO Kurt Allen's extensive experience, represents a significant investment in science education and community engagement in the West Palm Beach area. The transformed facility aims to inspire the next generation through immersive, hands-on learning experiences.