Silva Raker joined the Exploratorium in August 2010. An accomplished business development executive and trained scientist, Silva has successfully grown vibrant, mission-based companies in specialty retail and travel. After graduating with a BA in zoology followed by field studies in California and Cameroon, Silva joined The Nature Company where she spent ten years developing proprietary products, innovative programs, and fruitful partnerships. More recently, as the COO and leading strategist for Backroads, Silva managed a complex global operation while developing both new and existing business segments—including the Family Travel Program with natural history and cultural exploration for kids on five continents. Silva and the business development team are charged with growing earned income while extending the impact of the Exploratorium through our museum consultancy, exhibit services, licensing, retail stores, restaurant concession, event rentals, sponsorships, and more.
