Donate
Discovery Space logo

Our Story

Mission

The mission of Discovery Space is to provide engaging experiences with science and technology that spark curiosity and creativity.

Explore. Learn. Discover.

Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania is an exciting growing science center of interactive exhibits and hands-on programs designed to provide valuable informal science education, especially in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), in a fun learning environment.

Our proximity to The Pennsylvania State University allows for many valuable collaborations in both program delivery and exhibit development with the students and staff of the Colleges of Arts and Architecture, Education, Engineering, and the Eberly College of Science.

With support from local government, community organizations, businesses, and individual contributors, Discovery Space has become THE place in central Pennsylvania for fun science experiences.

From Concept to Reality

2002Concept envisioned by the Downtown State College Improvement District and a community group led by Marty Starling
2007Discovery Space incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
2010Facility acquired at 112 West Foster Ave. in State College
2011Soft opening (July), Grand Opening (October)
2012Unveiled Essential Elements donor recognition display
2013

  • Provided eight full weeks of summer camp

  • First traveling exhibit (Oregon Museum of Science & Industry)
2014

  • Held our first Night to Discover fundraiser

  • Welcomed our first two corporate members.
2015

  • Provided afterschool programs to four school districts

  • Welcomed our 500th member family
2016

  • Provided thirteen sessions of summer camp

  • Welcomed our 700th member family
2017

  • Moved to a new, larger location (September)

  • Grand Opening (October)

Founders Society

We are grateful to the members of our Founders Society – those who generously contributed to Discovery Space during the critical phases of building renovation and exhibit development (prior to December 31, 2011).

Leadership

Board of Directors

Sue Werner, Chair

Steve Heinz, Vice Chair

Joe Doncsecz, Treasurer

Thomas Foley, Assistant Treasurer

Jenn Bauer, Secretary

Joyce Degenhart

Blaine Clapper

Todd Dolbin

Benson Lichtig

Katie Marshall

Donna Queeney

Scott Wing

 

Executive Director
Michele Crowl, PhD
Michele@DiscoverySpace.org

Chief of Staff
Madison Flaherty
Madison@DiscoverySpace.org

Director of Development
Marianne Hazel, D.Ed.
Marianne@DiscoverySpace.org

Director of Strategic Initiatives
Maria Barton
Maria@DiscoverySpace.org

Visitor Experience Manager
Gina (Gavazzi) Walk
Gina@DiscoverySpace.org

Education Manager
Addison Leedy

The Rivet Manager
Evan Rosengrant
Evan@DiscoverySpace.org

Why We Serve

Our board is full of passionate advocates for STEM learning, creative exploration, and community connection. As you get to know the people behind Discovery Space and The Rivet, we invite you to read their own words about what fuels their commitment.

“I’m an enthusiastic Discovery Space supporter because it’s the most effective way I know to introduce and encourage STEM education to the next generation of technologists!”

— Steve Heinz

 

“I was fortunate to have access to science in a fun and creative environment as a kid, and I want to create a space for that for my twins.  When they came to Discovery Space for the first time, they loved it and were so excited about exploring every little thing!”

— Jenn Bauer

“ I think that this place is special, especially to be able to see kids light up when they see the Science Center!”

— Thomas Foley

 

“ There’s nothing else like Discovery Space, and we need it.”

— Benson Lichtig

“When our family first moved back to town, our kids fell in love with the activities at the Discovery Space. You never really outgrow the science center….It’s a great space for both kids and adults. I loved using The Rivet for working on our house projects, and my wife immediately began to make connections with the local maker/artist community. This is such an integral part of our community and really helped make the move to State College extremely welcoming.”

— Todd Dolbin

“ I got involved with Discovery Space before it first opened. I’ve been passionate and involved ever since! ”

— Sue Werner

 

 

Share This