For the past 15 years, Joseph Knight has been in Western North Carolina, doing the job he loves - teaching children about science.

He has been the executive director of HandsOn!, a children's museum in Hendersonville, for the past nine-and-a-half years, and now, he's moving on. According to an April 7 news release, Knight has accepted a similar role at a science museum located outside of WNC, and his last day at HandsOn! will be April 30.

Although he is leaving the mountains, he will still keep his title as the president of the North Carolina Science Network.

"I’ve truly enjoyed my past 15 years in Western North Carolina. Moving from the coastal plains to the mountains was a big change, and one I’ve cherished every step of the way," he told News 13. "Bringing informal STEM learning to schools and families across the region has been an honor, and I’m deeply grateful to be part of a mountain community that has embraced me both personally and professionally."

For several years, he was a repeat guest on the News 13 morning broadcast, as he demonstrated science experiments to the WLOS TV audience. He told News 13 that he's really going to miss the people here in WNC.

"The past nine-and-a-half years at Hands On! have flown by, and I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together. I will miss the museum, its exceptional staff and its dedicated board of directors. I’ll also miss sharing fun and engaging science demonstrations on WLOS— which was an incredible opportunity to bring the joy of science to families who otherwise couldn’t experience the museum," he said.

I plan to cherish every moment of my remaining time as Director of Hands On! in the coming weeks. This museum brings immense joy and wonder to children and adults alike, and I’m deeply grateful to have played a role in creating moments of happiness and inspiration that will stay with families long after they leave.

Knight previously served as deputy director of KidSenses Children’s Museum in Rutherfordton.

Under Knight'sleadership at HandsOn!, the museum expanded from 4,000 to 20,000 square feet, adding 13,000 square feet of new state-of-the-art exhibits. Knight also spearheaded the creation of the People’s Museum and Walk of Fame, a public–private partnership with the City of Hendersonville that honors the lived experiences of Henderson County residents, the release said. As a result of these efforts, annual attendance at the museum has more than doubled — from 28,000 to over 60,000 — and the museum’s operating budget grew from $360,000 to nearly $1 million, according to the release.

“Joseph’s leadership has reshaped Hands On! in ways that will serve this community for generations,” said Sarah Cosgrove, Board President of Hands On! Children’s Museum, in the release. “His vision, resilience, and unwavering dedication have elevated this museum to new heights. Because of Joseph, Hands On! stands stronger than ever and we are deeply grateful for his years of service.”

Sharon Campbell, a former board member and past chair, will assume the role of interim executive director until a permanent successor is appointed, the release said.

“I am excited to work with Sharon in the coming weeks to ensure a smooth transition. Her prior service as a board member, proven business acumen and deep love for our community will serve her well in this role," Knight said.

 

STORY & PHOTO COURTESY OF ABC 13 WLOS.