After 31 years of service as the director of the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, Charles Knight has announced his retirement.
Under the guidance of Knight, the Jackson museum reached new heights, including the prestigious American Alliance of Museums accreditation and the Travel Attraction of the Year award from the Southeast Tourism Society. Additionally, the facility was recently named the 2024 Best Museum by readers of Mississippi Magazine.
“As a kid in the 1970s, I visited the Museum in its old downtown Jackson location and felt like it was built just for me,” Knight said. “About 20 years later, after earning my degrees in biology and gaining experience with scientific museum collections, I jumped at the chance to work here, first as Research Coordinator, then Assistant Director, and finally as Director. Leading this incredible team has been the highlight of my career.”
Beyond a long list of awards, Knight spearheaded the museum’s impact on conservation, education, and tourism in Mississippi.
“Charles has been instrumental in growing the museum into an award-winning attraction and research facility,” Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks Executive Director Lynn Posey said. “Charles’ dedication to creating engaging exhibits and his commitment to wildlife conservation have left an indelible mark. We thank him for his decades of service, congratulate him on his distinguished career, and wish him well in his new adventure!”
