kiryn hoffman

Kiryn Hoffman is President and CEO of National Children’s Museum, a one-of-a-kind hybrid science center and children’s museum dedicated to sparking curiosity through playful, hands-on STEAM experiences for children ages 12 and younger. Located in Washington, DC, it serves more than 225,000 visitors annually from all 50 U.S. states and over 75 countries.

With 20 years of leadership experience in nonprofit organizations focused on scientific research and education, Kiryn has developed educational programs, led fundraising campaigns, and built community partnerships. Kiryn is trained as a physical chemist and holds a bachelor’s degree from Barnard College and a master’s from New York University. Between her undergraduate and graduate studies, she assisted Nobel laureate James D. Watson in writing and editing his book, DNA: The Secret of Life, and curated an international touring exhibit about his writing career. She is also a published science writer, with articles in Scientific American Mind, The National Academies Press, and Nature Nanotechnology, among others. She lives in Washington, DC, with her husband and two children.

featured articles + speaking engagements

• Panel Discussion—A 360° Perspective on AI Literacy – EDSAFE AI Alliance, March 26, 2026
• Viewpoint: Children's museum work will go on, at the Reagan Building or elsewhere – Washington Business Journal, March 11, 2026
• It’s Time to Embrace AI Literacy for Kids – The 74, February 8, 2026
• 18 Ways Startup Leaders Can Build A Strong Company Culture – Forbes, February 5, 2026