Looking back on 2022

“I had so much fun today…I can’t wait to visit the new museum!” – child participating in OVMoD on the Road program

You and me both, friend! If you’ve been following the Ohio Valley Museum of Discovery over the past few years, you’ll know how much has gone into our planning, fundraising, and dreaming about our new museum space.

Four adults stand smiling in front of the museum, representing Hoon, Inc, RVC Architects, and the Ohio Valley Museum of Discovery.
Hoon, Inc., RVC Architects, and Ohio Valley Museum of Discovery at the signing of our construction contract

We are thrilled to update you all and let you know that construction is active at our building at 67 Columbus Road in Athens!

Meanwhile, through the generous support of local foundations, businesses, and community members, our hands-on interdisciplinary education programs have been moving full “STEAM” ahead. From community events like the Pawpaw Festival to our annual summer camp, we’ve been able to offer fun and educational STEM+Arts programs throughout southeast Ohio.

In 2022 we:

  • Brought programs to schools, summer camps, programs that serve adults with disabilities, and local environmental education conferences
  • Collaborated with students at Ohio University for family-friendly events like Earth Day and Family Science Saturday
  • Launched an associated OU Student club, Bobcats for Discovery
  • Visited 7 libraries with hands-on summer programs about topics like bioluminescence and buoyancy
  • Supported teens as they produce Teen Science Cafés to learn from practicing scientists and STEAM professionals
  • Added a COMCorps member to our staff (thanks, Billie!)
  • Designed “STEAM Packs for Classrooms” and delivered them to every 1st grade class in Athens County
  • Hosted makerspace Discovery Lab workshops with mentors to engage playful learning and promote workforce development skills in technology and programming
  • Expanded our Summer Camp at Shade Community Center to 2 weeks, with 1/3 of students receiving financial assistance
  • Reached the 80% mark in our Capital Campaign
  • Served over 2,500 students, youth, and family members in OVMoD on the Road programs Partnered with 45+ volunteers and mentors at museum events

Building amazing educational opportunities is not possible without your help.

Looking back at all the joy we’ve had bringing STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, & mathematics) programs to our community!

During this giving season, we hope you will consider supporting the transformational “STEAM” learning experiences that OVMoD has brought to southeast Ohio for the last 15 years. We are working hard to make hands-on interdisciplinary education accessible for everyone.

Will you join us to make a difference?