Modesto Children’s Museum chooses leader for ‘its next chapter’

The Modesto Children’s Museum has named Katie Trausch as its new chief executive officer.

Trausch has been serving as interim CEO, according to a press release. Former executive officer Chelsie Webster stepped down earlier this year.

Trausch was selected after a nationwide search and the museum’s board of directors unanimously confirmed her appointment, “citing her clear vision, collaborative leadership, and deep commitment to the museum’s mission,” the press release said.

“The board has full confidence in Katie’s ability to lead the museum into its next chapter,” Amy Abid Jeffries, board president, said in the release. “Katie has shown herself to be a thoughtful and collaborative leader who cares deeply about this organization and the families we serve.”

Trausch said in the release that she’s “honored” to be selected. “Modesto is a special place — vibrant, creative, and full of people who show genuine care by continually investing in our community.”

She joined the museum before it opened, serving as one of the nonprofit’s earliest hires, according to the release. As chief operating officer, she helped shape the museum’s operations, culture and systems.