Stephanie Joseph
Curator of Education
New York Aquarium (WCS)
Statement of Interest:
Connection and collaboration are imperative to building a strong network of professional peers. In my five years of NYCMER membership, I met many new colleagues who supported my growth in the NYC museum field and developed new partnerships along the way. My time of the board increased these bonds, and we have created new opportunities for NYCMER members to meet and learn at a variety of locations throughout the city. It would be my honor to serve as Trustee-at-Large to continue working with this powerhouse of professionals as we grow a thriving network in our museum community.
Goals for NYCMER:
NYCMER serves an important role of bringing museum professionals together from all levels of their careers. They also share resources and help make connections that build partnerships across the city. I hope NYCMER will begin to bring in more professionals from other informal education settings to expand out reach.
Professional Experience:
Over the last 20 years, I've worked in informal education at several organizations and now serve as Curator of Education for the New York Aquarium. I will be rolling off the NYCMER board as Membership Coordinator this year, but I am interested in the role of Trustee-at-Large to continue the work of increasing membership and creating opportunities for collaboration across NYC. I previously presented at the NYCMER conference as well as the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and New York State Marine Educators Association (NYSMEA) conferences. I also partner with the United Nations Friends of World Oceans Day to bring high school students to the UN for the international event and coordinate an annual beach cleanup at Coney Island.
Specific Skills:
As the outgoing membership coordinator, I look forward to supporting the incoming coordinator as they learn the member database for their term. I also enjoy event planning and hosted both a NYCMER Meet and Greet and a Holiday Party during my time as a board member. I am happy to help where needed depending on the skill set of the new board members.