TMA appoints Dr. Erika Shugart as interim CEO to lead transition after Celia Besore’s retirement
The Monitoring Association (TMA) has announced a significant leadership transition with the appointment of Dr. Erika Shugart as its Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective from July 1, 2025. Shugart will assume full executive management responsibilities upon the retirement of the current CEO, Celia T. Besore, on July 18, 2025, and will serve in this interim capacity until a permanent CEO is appointed.
Steve Butkovich, president of TMA, expressed optimism about the transition, highlighting Shugart’s proven leadership and extensive experience within association management as critical for maintaining continuity in service and support for TMA members during this period. Shugart herself conveyed enthusiasm about her new role, recognising TMA’s pivotal role in advancing professionalism and standards throughout the monitoring industry. She underlined her commitment to collaborating with TMA’s staff to ensure a smooth leadership handover.
Dr. Shugart brings to TMA a distinguished background in leading prominent scientific and professional organisations. Most recently, she served as the CEO of the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA), the largest global professional body for science educators at all grade levels. Her tenure at NSTA began in March 2021, during which she was credited with advancing science education and engagement. Prior to NSTA, Shugart held the position of CEO and Executive Director at the American Society for Cell Biology, where her leadership focused on strategic planning and governance reforms.
Her credentials are further reinforced by her academic accomplishments, holding a Ph.D. in biology from the University of Virginia. Dr. Shugart is also an elected Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), recognising her contributions to informal science education and public science communication.
This leadership change at TMA follows Shugart’s decision to move on from her role at NSTA, where she was succeeded by Bob Lay as Interim CEO in early 2025. Lay, known for his financial and operational expertise from previous leadership roles, was appointed to ensure continuity at NSTA as Shugart transitioned.
TMA’s announcement of Shugart’s interim appointment underscores the association’s strategic approach to sustaining leadership excellence while conducting a thorough search for a permanent CEO. This period presents an opportunity for continued focus on TMA’s mission to support the evolving needs of the monitoring industry and its professional community.