Interim Leadership Takes Over at U.S. Space and Rocket Center as CEO Goes on Leave

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama (WHNT) - The U.S. Space and Rocket Center has announced that its current CEO, Dr. Kimberly Robinson, is currently on leave from her position. A spokesperson for the organization informed News 19 that Brenda Perez, the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, will be stepping in to take on all CEO responsibilities in her absence. Dr. Robinson has been a 31-year veteran at NASA and assumed the role of Executive Director and CEO in February 2021. When she was chosen for the position, Joe Newberry, the Chairman of the Alabama Space Science Exhibit Commission Board, praised her for her vast experience with NASA and her innovative spirit and leadership skills. "Her energy and enthusiasm are contagious and brought her to the top of a rigorous and exhaustive search for our new Executive Director and CEO," said Newberry. Brenda Perez has been the Vice President and CFO at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center since October 2019, according to her LinkedIn account. Her LinkedIn page describes her as an "accounting professional with 30 years of experience" who is proficient in budgeting, financial reporting and analysis, and payroll and employee benefits administration. The reason for Dr. Robinson's leave of absence is currently unknown. Perez will lead the U.S. Space and Rocket Center for an undetermined amount of time while Dr. Robinson is away. The organization is confident that Perez's extensive experience and expertise will ensure a smooth transition during this time. The U.S. Space and Rocket Center is a popular destination for space enthusiasts, offering a wide range of exhibits, simulations, and educational programs. With Dr. Robinson's extensive background in NASA and her innovative leadership style, she has been instrumental in driving the center's growth and success. The organization is hopeful that Perez's leadership will continue this momentum and ensure a seamless transition during Dr. Robinson's absence. As the U.S. Space and Rocket Center continues to thrive under the leadership of Brenda Perez, space enthusiasts can look forward to even more exciting experiences and educational opportunities at the center in the future.