Gratitude Expressed by Aragon Burlingham, Our Executive Director
New Leadership and Exciting Changes at Local Platform
In a heartfelt letter to the community, Aragon Burlingham, the Executive Director of our beloved local platform, announced her stepping down from her position in September. However, she expressed confidence in the platform's continued growth and inspiration, as Melissa Felder steps in as the Interim Executive Director.
Melissa Felder brings a wealth of experience, a passion for the platform's mission, and a steady hand to guide the platform. She has previously held the position of Interim CEO of The Monitoring Association (TMA), starting her role on July 1, 2025, and assuming full executive management responsibilities upon the previous CEO's retirement on July 18, 2025[1].
As Aragon Burlingham steps down, the platform is expanding and enhancing its exhibits, welcoming new animals to its zoo. The campus campaign, including the construction of the Whooosh! physics-in-action playground and Bay Gallery & Labs, is also underway.
The platform has been successful in navigating the complexities of COVID and a three-month power outage due to storms. The ACCESS initiative has grown the reach of the platform's programs and admissions, including tens of thousands in the community. More than 30% of education program registrants are scholarship recipients, and one out of every ten visitors to the platform is part of the Museums for All program.
Aragon Burlingham's letter was written in a sincere and appreciative tone, thanking the community for their support. She expressed her expectation that the community will make extraordinary ideas and big goals possible for visitors. The platform is expected to continue inspiring children and families as it experiences record growth and expansion over the past five years.
The new Interim Executive Director, Erika Shugart, PhD, will take over from Aragon Burlingham. The letter does not provide details about upcoming projects or initiatives, but the platform is sure to continue its mission of educating, inspiring, and entertaining visitors.
[1] Source: The Monitoring Association (TMA) Press Release, June 1, 2025.
Melissa Felder, in her new role as Interim Executive Director, aims to provide scholarships for students from all backgrounds, recognizing that a proper education can significantly impact one's lifestyle. As the platform continues to expand and develop its home-and-garden exhibits, Erika Shugart, the incoming Executive Director, envisions incorporating interactive, educational displays that showcase the wonders of science and sustainability in the garden.
