SCI Welcomes Five New Members to Board of Directors

The Science Center of Iowa (SCI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jose Garcia, Matt Weber, Brian Mathey, Lauren Ugulini, and Lawrence Cunningham to its Board of Directors.

As members of SCI’s Board of Directors, they will support the organization’s mission to inspire Iowans along their journey of lifelong science learning through strategic leadership, advocacy, and community engagement.

Collectively, the new board members bring expertise in finance, analytics, technology, communications, business strategy, and nonprofit leadership, helping strengthen SCI’s ability to serve learners across Iowa. Their appointments come as SCI continues to expand science learning opportunities, strengthen community partnerships, and invest in innovative experiences that engage learners of all ages.

For 55 years, SCI has served as a nonprofit resource for science education and engagement in Iowa, welcoming more than 200,000 learners annually through interactive exhibits, STEM programs, outreach initiatives, and educational experiences.

Jose Garcia

Jose Garcia serves as Principal – Audit at MHCS, P.C., where he leads the firm’s Business Advisory and Assurance department. A Certified Public Accountant licensed in Iowa and Missouri, Garcia brings extensive experience in financial oversight, governance, and nonprofit operations. He is active in community leadership through service with HOME Inc., ALPFA, Make-A-Wish Iowa, Leadership Iowa, and numerous volunteer organizations.

Matt Weber

Matt Weber serves as Senior Director of Data Science and Analytics at Casey’s General Stores, where he leads enterprise data science, artificial intelligence, and analytics initiatives. With more than 25 years of experience in engineering, analytics, and business strategy, Weber brings a passion for science, technology, and lifelong learning, along with leadership roles at Iowa State University and Des Moines Area Community College.

Brian Mathey

Brian Mathey serves as Senior Vice President and Global Head of Procurement for Athene Holding Ltd. and Apollo Global Management. He brings extensive experience in organizational leadership, governance, enterprise transformation, and strategic operations, having led global procurement initiatives supporting more than $1 billion in enterprise spend throughout his career.

Lauren Ugulini

Lauren Ugulini serves as Vice President of Underwriting & Claims Insights at Nationwide, where she leads advanced analytics and portfolio insights initiatives for commercial and specialty business units. A recognized leader in actuarial science and analytics, Ugulini brings expertise in predictive analytics, risk management, machine learning, and strategic planning, along with a strong commitment to mentorship and professional development.

Lawrence Cunningham

Lawrence Cunningham serves as Chief Growth Officer for Business Publications Corporation and brings extensive experience in executive leadership, strategic communications, business development, and organizational growth. A longtime community leader, Cunningham has served in leadership roles with numerous Iowa organizations and has previously supported SCI as an Annual Fundraising Campaign & Event Co-Chair.

“We are excited to welcome these accomplished leaders to SCI’s Board of Directors,” said Curt Simmons, President & CEO of the Science Center of Iowa. “Their collective expertise, diverse perspectives, and commitment to service will help guide SCI as we continue inspiring curiosity and lifelong science learning across Iowa. We are especially grateful for their willingness to volunteer their time, talents, and leadership in support of SCI’s mission and the communities we serve.”