Tennessee Aquarium President Charlie Arant Retiring

Chattanooga (WDEF) Officials with the Tennessee Aquarium announce that president and CEO Charlie Arant is retiring.

He made the announcement to staff and volunteers Monday morning.

“The people I’ve worked with at the Aquarium are just incredible,” said Mr. Arant. “Their efforts are just far beyond anything you could expect as a leader.”

On March 20, 1995, Arant became the third president and CEO in the Aquarium’s history. Here is a list of a few of the Aquarium milestones under his tenure.

-Opening of the IMAX 3D Theater in 1996
-The Aquarium’s Conservation Institute established in 1996
-Education Department launches regional outreach programs in 1997
-Education Department accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) in 2001 (The Aquarium remains the only zoo or aquarium accredited as a Special Purpose School.)
-Opening of Ocean Journey in 2005
-Launch of the River Gorge Explorer in 2008
-Aquarium receives the National Medal from the Institute of Museum and Library Services in 2009
-Announcement of a permanent facility for the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute – 2015

“I am extremely proud of what this team has been able to accomplish in every facet of Aquarium operations,” said Mr. Arant. “There is a level of commitment and care from this staff that goes way beyond their job descriptions.”

The Aquarium will conduct a nationwide search for their next president.

Arant will "remain actively engaged" until the Board names a replacement.