Oak Ridge Mayor Warren Gooch, right, presented Mary Ann Damos with a City Council resolution thanking her for her leadership and service. At left is Tom Beehan, chair of the Children’s Museum board. (Submitted photo)

The Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge has blossomed under the leadership of Executive Director Mary Ann Damos, with added exhibits inside and improved grounds outside. One literal example is the once-overgrown back yard that’s now a blooming and attractive learning garden inviting children to grow, harvest, and cook the garden’s bounty.

Damos is retiring at the end of this year after 10 years as director and nearly 20 years with the museum. The Kids Go Green! Environmental Learning Center and Garden is one of her favorite areas of the museum and among the improvements she is most proud of.

“The garden transformed our building,” Damos said. “Plus, it teaches the children about the environment, to have concern for the earth, which is really important. The garden has become a part of events and activities throughout the museum. In the summer, for example, all the camps use the garden, whether for arts or sciences.”

Damos is spending her last weeks at the museum finishing some grant requests. [Read more…]