Nauticus
Jan 14, 2020 12:00 PM
Stephen Kirkland, Director, Nauticus
Nauticus

NAUTICUS inspires and educates with engaging & interactive experiences that celebrate our connections with today’s maritime world. Nauticus is a contemporary museum that uses the natural setting of Norfolk’s harbor to showcase global maritime commerce and the world’s largest Navy. Stephen Kirkland was appointed Executive Director of Nauticus in 2013, having served as assistant director since 2009. In his current role, he also serves as President and CEO of the Nauticus Foundation. Stephen joined the organization in 2001 and was originally tasked with helping develop Norfolk’s burgeoning cruise ship program. Stephen brings a unique, visitor-focused perspective to his role as director. As a cruise director with Carnival Cruise Lines, he was responsible for the guest experience and onboard entertainment product for more than 400,000 passengers annually. In 1998, Stephen became the youngest cruise director ever to serve aboard the world’s largest cruise ship, the Carnival Destiny. Prior to his tenure at Carnival, he worked as a television reporter in Georgia and as an attractions host at Walt Disney World. Stephen received his Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of South Carolina.