Who We Are
– Mission
The Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum’s mission is to spark curiosity & inspire learning through exploration & creative play.
– History
Since opening in the spring of 1996, the Museum’s mission had been fulfilled far beyond the expectations of the three founders who spearheaded its development. The original five exhibits based at 54 S. Loudoun Street in Winchester, Virginia and constructed by committed community volunteers instilled in children a sense of wonder and hunger for knowledge. In response to community demand, additional galleries were added to allow room for special exhibits and activities. Teachers bring their classes to the Museum to reinforce the Virginia Standards of Learning in hands-on workshops presented by the Museum educators.
In May 2014, the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum (SVDM) moved to a newly renovated 1950’s former furniture building off of the historic walking mall in downtown Winchester. The 19,200 sq. foot expanse of space lends a bright and welcoming environment where over 70,000 people visit annually. The new museum space has been a resounding success with 14 exhibitions, a rotating menu of weekly programs, and a retinue of partnerships and visiting educators.
Our Team
Dawn Devine – Executive Director
Tammy Stevenson – Director of Development and Marketing
Madelynn Whited – Education Site Manager
Rory King – Exhibits and Facility Manager
Matthew Jackson – Exhibits and Facility Assistant Manager
Cheryl Costello – Education and Outreach Specialist
Sidney Conlon – Education and Reservation Specialist
Questions about Membership – email learning@discoverymuseum.net
Questions about Volunteers – email groupreservations@discoverymuseum.net
Board of Directors
Dr. Colette Sabbagh, Pediatric Associates – Chair
Jonathan Reimer, F & M Bank VA – Treasurer
Dr. Jason Craig – Valley Health
Neile Martin – Yount, Hyde & Barbour CPA
Andy Gail – Literacy Volunteers Winchester Area
Dr. Yolanda Barbier-Gibson – Shenandoah University
Meghan Ford – Blue Ridge Design
Dr. Stephanie Lessard-Pilon – George Mason University
Holly Owens – Realtor
Rossi Selzer – Mediation Partners
Nan Bryant – Retired Principal, Winchester City Schools
Courtenay Nantz – Educational Leadership at Shenandoah University
Courtney Warner – Lawyer for Juvenile and Domestic Relations
Contact us: info@discoverymuseum.net
Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum strives to remain transparent in all endeavors. As a nonprofit organization, we work hard to be fiscally responsible and proudly post our financials for visitors and donors to review.