Melissa Felder was named the new interim executive director for CuriOdyssey, the kid-friendly science playground and zoo in San Mateo that invites all to wonder and wander — bringing with her great expertise and vision for her time at the museum.
Felder’s position was effective Sept. 1, following the departure and retirement of Aragon Burlingham, who served as executive director for five years. As interim executive director, Felder will only serve in the role until a permanent successor is found, but she’s looking forward to leading the organization in the meantime.
“How long that takes, I’m not exactly sure, but in the meantime I’m really committed to this organization and making sure it continues with its important role,” Felder said.
When she left her position as chief experience officer at the California Academy of Sciences in May, Felder was set to retire, but opportunity arose for her to lead CuriOdyssey during what she described as a “pivotal time.”
“My brain didn’t stop working and my heart didn’t stop beating,” she said.
During her tenure, Felder plans to focus on making sure the community is aware of all CuriOdyssey has to offer.
Burlingham’s tenure was marked with a successful response and adaptation to the COVID-19 pandemic, and Felder hopes to only build on his work, she said. While the past five years have worked to stabilize the organization, the time has come to reinvest in marketing the organization to expand its reach.
“The world has changed a lot in the past five years and since CuriOdyssey was founded,” Felder said. “It’s a different place now than when I brought my kids here. We have an opportunity to continue to raise awareness in the county.”
Returning to the place where she once took her young children to explore — back when the museum was called Coyote Point Museum for Environmental Education — and now serving in a leadership role looking to educate the next generation feels “full circle.”
“It is feeling very comfortable and welcoming,” Felder said. “I feel generally like my prior experience set me up to be effective here, an effective leader and caretaker here.”
CuriOdyssey is a county attraction, hailing most of its visitors from the nearby area, which Felder said provides a unique area of focus for her work.
“This is for the region, for the Peninsula, so I think one of the things that will be interesting and important is meeting the needs of our direct community,” Felder said.
Felder said she will look to ensure and expand accessibility programs that allow families of all income levels and children of all learning abilities enjoy the lessons of CuriOdyssey.
Located in Coyote Point Recreation Area, CuriOdyssey offers programs and exhibits targeted toward children ages 2-10 years old that tackle advanced scientific ideas in a digestible and fun way.
CuriOdyssey was founded in 1953 as a junior museum. After rebranding in 2011 as CuriOdyssey, the science museum and zoo has become a beloved destination for young families.
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