Drexel University, led by President Antonio Merlo and Board Chair Suzanne Biemiller, announced the closure of the Academy of Natural Sciences museum on September 30 to pursue a sustainable future centered on research, education, and public engagement, while preserving the Academy’s extensive collections.

The Academy, founded in 1828 and connected with Drexel since 2011, housed nearly 19 million specimens, fossils, archives, and resources, with continued collaboration planned between Drexel and the Academy.

David L. Cohen became involved to help craft a viable path forward after Academy board members sought assistance to avoid leaving Philadelphia, initiating outreach to city and state leaders.

Community reaction in Philadelphia reflects a sense of loss for a cultural and educational pillar, recalling family visits, school programs, and iconic exhibits like the dinosaur hall.

Public engagement and education programs are expected to continue in some form, though the exact plan is still being shaped with city, state officials, and a third-party facilitator guiding the long-term mission and access to collections.

Cohen reports numerous meetings and a draft proposal aimed at preserving the Academy’s essential mission while safeguarding Drexel from financial risk.

Updates will be shared with the Drexel community as plans develop, indicating ongoing efforts to determine how the Academy’s mission will continue alongside or within Drexel.

Officials from Governor Shapiro’s administration, Philadelphia’s mayor, and a third-party facilitator are involved in talks to ensure the Academy preserves its scientific mission and access to collections while exploring new public-engagement opportunities.

The decision to close comes amid rising operating costs and shifts in visitation, with both Drexel leadership and the Academy citing economic model changes as core drivers.

Financial decisions include a 2025 shift to reduced hours and earlier 2026 camp cuts, reflecting sustained financial strain contributing to the closure.

The closure is expected to affect the cultural landscape, with memories of field trips and beloved exhibits highlighting the museum’s long-standing role in education.

The institutions are exploring the possibility of establishing another museum, potentially smaller or partnered, as part of the broader agreement.