Wilson's Imagination Station Names New Executive Director

Hometown museum leader Joseph Knight to take the helm, while outgoing director Brooke Farmer shifts to lead exhibits and facilities

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:53pm

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An abstract, impressionistic scene of children's hands interacting with science exhibits, captured in a soft, dreamlike wash of warm colors and blurred shapes, conveying the sense of wonder and discovery at the heart of the museum's mission.The leadership transition at Imagination Station aims to inspire new generations of curious learners through interactive STEAM exhibits and experiences.Wilson Today

Wilson's Imagination Station has named Joseph Knight, a Wilson native and nationally recognized museum leader, as its new executive director. Knight will assume the role on May 4, succeeding Brooke Farmer, who will continue serving the museum in a new leadership position as director of exhibits and facilities.

Why it matters

This transition marks an exciting new chapter for Imagination Station as the museum looks to reimagine how it serves Wilson and eastern North Carolina. Knight's return to his hometown is a full-circle moment, as he first became involved with the museum as a middle school student attending a summer science camp there. The museum's board is confident in Knight's visionary leadership and proven results in expanding access to informal STEAM learning.

The details

Knight, who has over 15 years of museum leadership experience, most recently served as director and CEO of Hands On! Children's Museum in Hendersonville, where he oversaw significant growth and transformation. In his new role, he will work alongside Farmer and the board of directors to lead Imagination Station into a rebirth, as the museum looks to overhaul the visitor experience and upgrade its exhibits and facilities.

  • Knight will assume the executive director role on May 4, 2026.
  • Farmer has served as Imagination Station's executive director for approximately three years, following 10 years with the organization in various roles.

The players

Joseph Knight

A Wilson native and nationally recognized museum leader, who has been named the new executive director of Imagination Station. He previously served as director and CEO of Hands On! Children's Museum in Hendersonville.

Brooke Farmer

The outgoing executive director of Imagination Station, who will now serve as the director of exhibits and facilities as the museum undergoes a rebirth and reinvention.

Kimberly Van Dyk

The president of Imagination Station's board of directors, who expressed confidence in Knight's leadership and Farmer's continued contributions to the museum.

Karl L. McKinnon

The late former executive director of Imagination Station, who served as a mentor to Joseph Knight during his early involvement with the museum as a middle school student.

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What they’re saying

“This transition marks an exciting new chapter for Imagination Station. I have great confidence in Joseph's leadership and look forward to continuing to support the museum as we move forward together.”

— Brooke Farmer, Outgoing Executive Director

“Returning home to Wilson and serving Imagination Station as its next executive director is both a profound honor and a responsibility I hold close to my heart. I am inspired by the opportunity to work alongside the people of Wilson to shape a shared vision that will serve children and families for generations to come.”

— Joseph Knight, Incoming Executive Director

“The board is incredibly grateful to both Mr. Knight and Ms. Farmer for taking on these new positions and being willing to lead this organization with us into a bright future. Mr. Knight brings a powerful blend of visionary leadership, proven results and a special personal connection to Imagination Station and the Wilson community.”

— Kimberly Van Dyk, Board President

What’s next

The board of directors and new leadership team at Imagination Station will work together to implement the museum's new five-year strategic plan, which was unveiled in February 2026.

The takeaway

This leadership transition at Imagination Station represents an exciting opportunity for the museum to reinvent itself and deepen its impact as a hub for informal STEAM learning in Wilson and the surrounding region. The combination of Knight's visionary leadership and Farmer's continued involvement will help propel the museum forward as it seeks to inspire new generations of curious learners.