Nautical museum names new president

The Newport Beach Nautical Museum / ExplorOcean has changed the executive director position title to president, and given the role to Rita Stenlund.

Stenlund filled in as interim executive director after David Mueller stepped down last year. Before that, Stenlund served as director of development at the museum on Balboa Peninsula.

“Rita has the unanimous support of the board of trustees and we are enthused about having her lead our efforts in becoming Orange County’s newest attraction,” Board Chairman Jim Reed said in a prepared statement. “We are all very happy to have her as our new president.”

The board of trustees changed the title to create a more governing body, according to information released by the museum.

In March 2010, the museum near the Balboa Fun Zone, under Stenlund’s direction, debuted plans to expand and rename the museum as ExplorOcean, which included the construction of Richard and Betty Steele Model Pavilion and multiple new education and interactive exhibits.

“The new design and vision of ExplorOcean will not only change the landscape of Balboa, but will create an experience that goes beyond education and stirs the minds and hearts of all who visit,” according to a statement from Stenlund. “I am thrilled and honored to accept this appointment.”

— Sarah Peters