Steve Nowak

Executive Director

Steve is enthusiastic about telling stories through artifacts and helping people make a personal connection with history: “I love the way ordinary things can make powerful connections to the past and the people that used them.  That is what makes my job so exciting.”  As director, he is involved with nearly everything that happens at the Watkins, from finance and building preservation to exhibits and programs, so every day is interesting.  But the part of his job he likes most is community outreach—giving behind-the-scenes tours, talking with community groups, working with students, and establishing partnerships with the great people and organizations in our community.

Steve has over thirty years’ experience in museum work and a background in art, history, and material culture.  He is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis.