NCSE's executive director Eugenie C. Scott announced on May 6, 2013, that she was planning to retire by the end of the year, after more than twenty-six years at NCSE's helm. "It's a good time to retire, with our new climate change initiative off to a strong start and with the staff energized and excited by the new challenges ahead," she commented. "The person who replaces me will find a strong staff, a strong set of programs, and a strong board of directors."

During Scott's time at NCSE, she was honored with no fewer than eight honorary degrees as well as the Public Welfare Medal from the National Academy of Science, the inaugural Stephen Jay Gould Prize from the Society for the Study of Evolution, the Public Service Award from the National Science Board, and the Scientific Freedom and Responsibility Award from the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

"It's not going to be easy to fill the shoes of someone who has done so much to make NCSE into the respected and admired organization it is," remarked Brian Alters, the president of NCSE's board of directors. "We look forward with working with Genie to find the best possible successor." A job announcement is now available; members and friends of NCSE are encouraged to spread the word that what Scott once described as "the best job in the world" will soon be open.

Science Insider (May 6, 2013) reported on the announcement, quoting Kenneth R. Miller of Brown University as saying of Scott, "She's incomparable, irreplaceable, and indispensable," and Sean B. Carroll of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute as saying, "The entire scientific community, legions of teachers, and millions of students owe her a great debt for her dedication and passionate advocacy. She has established a remarkable legacy at NCSE."

Updated on May 8, 2013, by the addition of the fourth paragraph.