National Aquarium Names Jennifer Driban President and CEO

The National Aquarium has named Jennifer Driban president and CEO, effective July 1, 2026, following a nationwide search led by its board of directors and external advisers. Driban, who joined the organization in 2016, was named interim president and CEO in 2025.

"I am deeply honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as the National Aquarium's next president and CEO as well as the first female leader in the organization's history," said Driban. "For the past decade, I've had the privilege of working alongside an extraordinary team of staff and volunteers and a dedicated board of directors. As a lifelong Marylander with fond memories of visiting the National Aquarium as a child, I couldn't be more excited to lead the Aquarium in this next chapter, through a period of growth and transformation. Together, we will build on our strong foundation, deepen our impact and inspire future generations to connect with nature and care for our ocean planet."

Driban has an extensive leadership history at the Aquarium, serving in roles such as chief mission officer and vice president of government affairs. In these roles, she has shaped the organization's approach to public policy and advocacy while overseeing conservation education and programs, government affairs and guest engagement.

"The National Aquarium is entering one of the most exciting chapters in its 45-year history as we endeavor to modernize the campus for generations to come," said Board Chair Meredith Mowen. "We searched far and wide for a leader who could match that ambition, and it became clear, time and again, that the right person was already on our team. Jennifer leads with heart, with strategy and with a genuine love for this place—and we couldn't be more excited to see what she builds next."

Before joining the National Aquarium, she held leadership positions in the public sector, working with Maryland state and local governments and serving on the senior staff of U.S. Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger, where she collaborated with Maryland's congressional delegation.

"Anyone who has worked alongside Jennifer knows her energy is contagious," said Board Vice Chair and Executive Search Committee lead, Jennifer Reynolds. "As interim president and CEO, she didn't just hold things steady during a pivotal moment for the Aquarium, she led with clarity, confidence and genuine enthusiasm for what's ahead. She loves this mission and this city, and that passion shows in everything she does. We are thrilled to see her officially step into this role."

In addition to her work at the National Aquarium, Driban serves on the boards of directors for the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore, Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore, Waterfront Management Authority and AZA Action. She is also active with several community nonprofit organizations and has completed the Association of Zoos & Aquariums' Ted A. Beattie Executive Leadership Development Program, Towson University's Professional Leadership Program for Women and Leadership Baltimore.

Driban earned a bachelor's degree in political science and metropolitan studies from Towson University and holds an MBA from Towson University and the University of Baltimore. She resides in Baltimore City with her family.