Press Release: Leonardo’s Children’s Museum Hires New Executive Director Charlet Ringwald

Enid, OK, 12/13/23 – Leonardo’s Children’s Museum proudly announces the hiring of Charlet Ringwald as its new Executive Director. With years of non-profit experience and a deep passion for the organization, Charlet is set to lead Leonardo’s Children’s Museum into a new era.
“I'm ecstatic to be the next executive director of Leonardo's. I am a Leo's kid at heart. It was at Leonardo’s that I embarked on my leadership journey, starting as a teen helper for DYNAMOS in 2001,” says Charlet Ringwald, the newly selected executive director. “I am a part of the narrative of 'inspiring a generation.' My heartfelt desire is to cultivate the next group of leaders in Enid, just as Leonardo’s and my mentors did for me all those years ago. I'm honored to be the first executive director that grew up in Leonardo's and to be a product of the mission.”

“We are incredibly excited about the vision Charlet has for Leonardo’s as our new executive director. Her passion for the organization is evident, and we are confident she is going to contribute to the growth and success of Leonardo’s in the years to come,” said Leonardo’s co-chair and search committee member Nicole Winfield.
After graduating from Enid High School, Ringwald attended Oklahoma State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theatre. Since 2019, she has served as the assistant director of Main Street Enid, playing a key role in the success of the organization, its programs, and events. A committed public servant, she was part of Leadership Greater Enid Class XXXII and has served on boards for Gaslight Theatre, JULA Foundation/Fly Film Festival, and Tri-State Music Festival.

Recognized for her outstanding achievements, Ringwald has been honored with several awards, including the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival Excellence in Stage Management Award, Enid Young Professionals 10 Under 40 honoree, and the Charles Hair Volunteer of the Year by the Oklahoma Community Theatre Association.

“We are thrilled to welcome Charlet as our new Executive Director. She brings experience, enthusiasm, excellent communication skills, and a breath of fresh air to our organization,” says Lynn Ballard, search committee chair and past board president. “We feel very lucky to have found her among many strong candidates we reviewed. The Leonardo’s board and staff are looking forward to Charlet taking Leonardo’s to the next level.”

Ringwald succeeds Executive Director Tracy Bittle, who assumed the role in March of 2017. "Tracy has done a phenomenal job as a leader for the past 7 years and her unwavering commitment has truly transformed Leonardo’s. While she will certainly be missed, we hope she enjoys her well-deserved retirement to the absolute fullest." said Leonardo’s co-chair Nicole Winfield.
Leonardo’s Children’s Museum is a 501c3 non-profit that has been serving the Enid area for more than 30 years. Leonardo’s mission is to enrich and inspire children of all ages by creating fun learning opportunities.

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