March 19, 2025

PHILADELPHIA, March 19, 2025— The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University (the Academy) today announced the appointment of Suzanne Biemiller as the new Chair of its Board of Trustees. Biemiller was elected March 5 to become the new chair, after serving as a board member since September 2023.

“The Academy of Natural Sciences is a treasure that, as a Philadelphian and a lover of the natural world, I am proud to help steward. Through its vast and significant collections, vital research and its role in educating and engaging the public, the Academy has advanced its important mission since the 19th century: to increase understanding of the natural world and inspire everyone to care for it. I am honored to be entrusted as board chair and ensure that the Academy will continue to flourish and serve during this century,” Biemiller said.

Biemiller is the Executive Director of Audubon Mid-Atlantic and a Vice President at the National Audubon Society. In 2017, she founded Highland Strategies, which supported the work of nonprofits, foundations and government agencies. Notably, Biemiller served as policy director and First Deputy Chief of Staff to Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter from 2008 to 2014. During that time, she spearheaded the Greenworks Philadelphia initiative, which united the city’s sustainability efforts and won the 2010 Siemens Sustainability Award.

Biemiller earned a BA in American Studies from Williams College and a Master of Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Her election comes after the retirement of former Chair David E. Griffith, who diligently served in the role since May 2019.

“David Griffith's tenure as board chair exemplified civic leadership at its finest. His steady guidance and deep dedication to our mission strengthened the Academy immeasurably. In Suzanne, we're fortunate to have found a successor whose environmental expertise and deep Philadelphia roots give her a unique perspective on both our scientific significance and our community value. Her experience with innovative initiatives that bring together multiple stakeholders will be invaluable as we continue expanding the Academy's impact. I'm particularly excited by Suzanne's ambitions to connect our historical strengths in natural science research with emerging environmental priorities that matter to the city and beyond,” said Scott Cooper, Ph.D., President and CEO of the Academy.

Biemiller will lead her first meeting of the Academy’s Board of Trustees May 7. For more information on the governance of the Academy of Natural Sciences, visit ansp.org/about/governance.

Contact:

Kaitlyn Foti Kalosy
kfk38@drexel.edu
215-299-1777

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About the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
Founded in 1812, the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is a leading natural history museum and scientific research organization dedicated to understanding the natural world and inspiring everyone to care for it. The Academy is a constant source of innovation, education and engagement with environmental justice. It is home to more than 19 million scientific specimens in its world-class collections. Learn more at ansp.org and follow the Academy on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.