Stamford Museum & Nature Center (SM&NC) is proud to announce the formation of a Science Advisory Council, created to guide the design and development of its new Astronomy & Physical Science Center.
The Council’s diverse membership is comprised of distinguished educational leaders from across the region including:
- Dr. Joel Adelberg, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction, Bedford Central School District
- Dr. Marcel Agüeros, Associate Professor of Astronomy, Columbia University
- Dr. Stephon Alexander, Professor of Physics, Brown University & President, National Society of Black Physicists
- Dr. Michael Alfano, Dean, College of Education, Sacred Heart University
- Dr. Sarbani Basu, Chair of the Department of Astronomy, Yale University
- Ms. Mary Pat Coburn, Science Educator, Smith Middle School & Chair, CT Science Teacher Association
- Dr. Toni Jones, Superintendent, Greenwich Public Schools
- Amy Beldotti, Associate Superintendent of Teaching & Learning, Stamford Public Schools
- Dr. Barrett Wells, Department Head and Professor of Physics, UCONN
Ex officio members include Senator Richard Blumenthal and Congressman Jim Himes.
“It is rewarding to have secured the commitment of such well-known and well-respected leaders in the educational and science communities. We believe that their expert counsel will have a tremendous impact on the development of our building, public programming, and science curriculum moving forward and enhance the reputation and visibility of the Astronomy & Physical Science Center,” said Melissa H. Mulrooney, Executive Director & CEO of the Stamford Museum & Nature Center.
At 8,000-square-feet, the Astronomy and Physical Science Center will combine and expand the SM&NC Observatory with a full planetarium and create a new signature venue on the property. The facility will feature three levels that include a first-floor, 100-seat Planetarium auditorium with state-of-the-art technology, a second-floor Science Lab classroom, and a third-level public outdoor viewing deck with steps leading into a 40-foot aluminum dome that will house a 22-inch research telescope for public viewing. It will also serve as a center for STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and astronomy and math) education, supporting the Connecticut State standards and the new Generation Science Standards.
“With the Grand Opening of the Farmhouse last November, we are focused on Phase II of our Campaign plan to raise the necessary funds to develop the Astronomy & Physical Science Center --- a profound educational resource not just for the region but the entire State of Connecticut,” said Michael Fedele, Co-Chair, The Campaign for Future Generations. “We anticipate breaking ground in the fall of 2020, and look forward to having the input and support of this distinguished Science Advisory Council on the design and development of this exciting new facility.”
About the Stamford Museum & Nature Center
The Stamford Museum & Nature Center is located on a beautiful 118-acre campus in North Stamford and is dedicated to the preservation and interpretation of art, natural and agricultural sciences and history. Open to the community since 1936, the SM&NC is a vital cultural and educational resource, as well as a focal point for family activity and interaction for children and adults in the city, state and region. The SM&NC seeks to inspire creativity, foster self-discovery, promote environmental stewardship and nurture appreciation for lifelong learning through exhibitions, educational programs and special events that enhance the visitor’s experience. For more information, please visit www.stamfordmuseum.org.
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