Stella Kafka Joins AGI’s Board of Directors

October 6, 2026

The American Geosciences Institute (AGI) welcomes Stella Kafka, Ph.D., CAE, to its Board of Directors as Board Liaison for 2026–28.

Kafka comes to the Board with experience as both a research scientist and a leader of scientific organizations.

From astrophysics to scientific leadership

Dr. Kafka trained as an astrophysicist and has also built a career leading scientific organizations. That combination has given her experience both doing research and working on the organizations, programs, and relationships that support scientific communities.

Kafka held research and academic appointments at Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory, the Carnegie Institution for Science as a NASA Astrobiology Institute Fellow, and Caltech’s Infrared Processing & Analysis Center. She has published in astrophysics and led federally funded research and education programs.

Leading scientific organizations

Her move from research to organizational leadership gave Kafka strong experience with the work around the science itself, including professional societies, governance, education programs, and public engagement.

Kafka has held senior leadership roles in national and international scientific organizations. She served as CEO of both the American Association of Variable Star Observers and the American Meteorological Society, with responsibility for areas including strategy, membership, philanthropy, education, and public communication. She is also a Certified Association Executive.

She brings this wealth of experience to AGI, whose member organizations span many disciplines, professions, and organizational models. Kafka has spent years working with scientists, governing bodies, funders, and the public, and she has maintained a strong interest in broadening participation in science and strengthening public connections to scientific work.

Joining the 2026–27 Board

“I am delighted to join the AGI Board at a pivotal time, when strong scientific institutions, interdisciplinary collaboration, and cultivating the next generation of scientists are essential to the future of the scientific enterprise. I look forward to working with the Board and AGI’s member societies to strengthen the community, expand opportunities for emerging scientists, and ensure that the geosciences continue to serve society with impact.”

— Stella Kafka

Kafka joins AGI’s Board of Directors as a Board Liaison alongside new Member-at-Large Abby Seadler Wulf, while Bradley Cramer becomes President-Elect and Doug Bartlett takes office as President. New and outgoing Board members will be recognized during the Friends of AGI Reception on October 11 at GSA Connects 2026.