The Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum Board of Directors announce after nearly four decades of exceptional service, Robin Krohn David will retire in August 2025 as Executive Director of the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum, marking 37 years of dedicated leadership. Born and raised on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Robin has devoted her professional life to preserving and promoting the region’s rich maritime heritage.

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Robin began her career in public service as Administrative Assistant to Mayor Gerald Blessey, serving for four years before taking time to raise her family. She has two daughters, Megan and Shelby, and one grandson Tripp. She is married to Rusty David who has been a pillar of support to both Robin and the Museum. The family are members of Nativity BVM Cathedral in Biloxi.

Robin’s tenure at the Museum is distinguished by her vision, tireless advocacy, and unwavering commitment to cultural preservation. Under her leadership, the Museum flourished—not only recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina but growing into a cornerstone of Gulf Coast history and tourism. She spearheaded major initiatives including the Billy Creel Memorial Gulf Coast Wooden & Classic Boat Show, the Race of the White Winged Queens, and the relocation and reconstruction of the Hurricane Camille Memorial in August 2024.

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A true leader in the tourism and cultural sectors, Robin co-founded the Mississippi Gulf Coast Attractions Association and held roles as President, Vice President, and Secretary/Treasurer on its Board. She has been an active member of the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce, the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce, the Mississippi Museum Association, and the American Sail Training Association. She served on the Governor’s Commission on Recovery, Rebuilding, and Renewal/Tourism Committee and was a Commissioner for the Mississippi Gulf Coast National Heritage Area.

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Robin’s work has earned numerous accolades, including the March of Dimes Spotlight on Success honor, the Founding Fathers Award from the Museum’s Board of Directors, and recognition as a “Preservation Hero” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Most recently, she was named one of the “Most Successful 100 Women to Know” by Gulf Coast Woman Magazine in July 2024 and received the Don Jacobs Lifetime Achievement Award from the Mississippi Gulf Coast Attractions Association.

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Robin had this to say about her upcoming retirement: "I am so very thankful to everyone that has donated, purchased tickets, volunteered, and became a part of this beautiful maritime and seafood museum since opening in 1986 - We are all one big family whose sole interest is perpetuating our history and heritage. Many thanks to all Board and Advisory Board members past and present, without your assistance none of this could have happened, you all just made my job easier! A big thank you to all our employees past and present, great jobs done by all, especially when I get stressed and you still put up with me! Just so many great memories and I look forward to taking a step back and becoming a volunteer for our next fearless Director! "

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Robin’s retirement marks the closure of an extraordinary chapter, but her influence will continue to shape the Museum and the Gulf Coast for generations to come. Her legacy is one of passion, perseverance, and profound community impact.