As chief executive officer (CEO) of the National Geographic Society, Dr. Jill Tiefenthaler has set a bold vision for one of the world’s most iconic organizations. She leads the Society’s mission-driven work, guiding a global community of National Geographic Explorers—scientists, innovators, educators, and storytellers—dedicated to illuminating and protecting the wonder of our world. She also serves on the Society’s board of trustees.
In 2020, Tiefenthaler made history as the first woman to serve as the Society’s CEO. She launched the Society’s strategic plan, NG Next, ushering in a new era of growth and global impact. She is spearheading the transformation of National Geographic headquarters in Washington, DC, the most significant expansion of the Society’s public space in its 138-year history. Central to this vision is the new National Geographic Museum of Exploration, set to open in summer 2026. This world-class destination will connect millions with the organization’s mission and the groundbreaking work of its Explorers through immersive and engaging experiences.
Under Tiefenthaler’s leadership, the Society has also achieved historic fundraising results, raising over $200 million in 2025, the fourth consecutive year of raising over $100 million. She also strengthened the organization’s partnership with The Walt Disney Company and serves on the board of National Geographic Partners, the joint venture between the Society and Disney.
A visionary leader in driving institutional transformation, Tiefenthaler previously spent more than 30 years in higher education. She served as president of Colorado College for nine years, where she led the most ambitious fundraising campaign in the college’s history, created new opportunities for student engagement, and led the effort to become a net-zero campus. Earlier in her career, Tiefenthaler served as provost at Wake Forest University and as professor of economics and associate dean at Colgate University.
Originally from Iowa, Jill grew up on a farm and worked for her family’s popcorn business before earning her BA in economics from Saint Mary’s College, Notre Dame. She holds an MA and PhD in economics from Duke University.
