James E. Pearson plans to step down as executive director of SPIE, effective April 30. Pearson, who has served in the post since 1993, will leave the organization to become executive director of The Instrument Society of America in Raleigh, N.C.
In a prepared statement, SPIE's president, Paul S. Schenker, lauded Pearson's accomplishments, noting that membership grew by 40 percent and revenues increased 50 percent during his tenure. At the same time, the organization expanded and created new products and services, including publications, meetings, exhibits, education and electronic information.
SPIE's board of directors has named Marshall Weathersby as acting executive director while a search committee convenes to select a permanent director.