Juan Govea, the new director of exhibits and education at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, is someone many in Monterey County already know. As a longtime Salinas resident, Govea most recently served as a board member for the Museum Foundation of Pacific Grove and taught science at Salinas High School for 11 years.

Those familiar with the Monterey Bay Aquarium may also recognize the name. At the age of 16, Govea volunteered as an Aquarium guide, and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies at UC-Santa Cruz and a master’s degree at Stanford University. For the last few years, Govea has served on the Aquarium’s Board of Trustees.

As the Museum’s director of exhibits and education, Govea will oversee exhibits and run the Museum’s active education department, said Executive Director Jeanette Kihs.

“Juan’s science background, knowledge of the Central Coast, and enthusiasm for natural history makes him a perfect fit for the Museum as move forward,” Kihs said.

Govea said he is committed to ensuring that the Museum’s exhibits and education programs attract and serve a diverse audience.

“I am looking forward to the challenge of expanding our community, bringing in new guests, and creating new experiences for our returning guests,” he said.