Leah Nanpei joins OMSI as its new Vice President of Real Estate and Facilities
[PORTLAND, OR – May 1, 2025] – The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) announced today that Leah Nanpei has joined the organization as the new Vice President of Real Estate and Facilities. In her role, Nanpei will be the chief strategist, leader, and advisor for the museum and learning facilities along with all future property development and strategic expansion initiatives, including the OMSI District.
“I am excited to join OMSI as VP of Real Estate and Facilities and have the opportunity to help shape the future of Portland through the transformative OMSI District development. I grew up here in Portland, and the new OMSI District represents a meaningful way to give back to my hometown while advancing an organization that sits at the intersection of science education, sustainability, and community building. The chance to contribute to Portland’s evolution through this innovative waterfront project feels like a perfect way to help create the next chapter for a city I’ve always loved.”
—LEAH NANPEI
Nanpei joins OMSI with an international career in architecture and development. In her previous role in executive leadership at SHoP Architects, she led multiple large-scale, mixed-use development projects, including the Collins Arch development in Melbourne. Leah brings extensive experience in long-range facilities planning and strategic property development as well as a demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Nanpei has managed the design of development projects across the world, navigating complex governmental relationships, planning large-scale projects, and leading diverse teams. Past projects include the Domino Sugar Factory Masterplan in Brooklyn, NY; The Tegucigalpa New Embassy Compound in Tegucigalpa, Honduras; and the UConn Innovation Partnership Building in Storrs, CT. Nanpei serves on the board of the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA)’s Portland Chapter. As a Community Outreach Committee Member and the Project Pipeline Curriculum Chair, she has created programs that foster diversity and empower change in Portland communities. She has been a member of the organization since 2022.
“The OMSI Leadership Team and Board of Trustees are thrilled to welcome Leah as our new Vice President of Real Estate and Facilities,” said Erin Graham, OMSI President and CEO. “Her portfolio of projects demonstrates a keen ability to oversee the many complexities of a development project, and we are eager to learn from her expertise. With her past experience and deep commitment to equity, Leah will be vital in building OMSI’s future.”
Nanpei earned her Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Oregon and her Master of Science in Advanced Architecture Design from Columbia University. Nanpei begins her role at OMSI on May 1, 2025.