Kirsten Ellenbogen

Kirsten Ellenbogen has a strong background in the field of science education and museum management. Kirsten began their career as a Demonstrator at the Detroit Science Center in 1987. Kirsten then moved on to work at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, where they developed programs, curricula, and exhibits, and also created the Mystery at the Museum exhibit and program. In 1996, they worked as a Consultant on various museum projects. Kirsten later joined the King's College London as a Project Director and Research Associate, where they led a collaboration with the Exploratorium and University of California Santa Cruz to create the Center for Informal Learning and Schools. Kirsten also conducted research on learning in museums and public understanding of science. In 2002, Kirsten became a Senior Associate at the Institute for Learning Innovation, conducting evaluation and research on free-choice learning. Kirsten then joined the Science Museum of Minnesota as the Director of Evaluation and Research in Learning, and later became the Senior Director for Lifelong Learning. In 2013, Kirsten took on the role of President & CEO at the Great Lakes Science Center, where they implemented a strategic initiative to promote advanced manufacturing in the community. Their work at the Great Lakes Science Center was recognized by the White House. Throughout their career, Kirsten has demonstrated a passion for promoting science learning and creating meaningful experiences for diverse audiences.

Kirsten Ellenbogen completed their high school education at Cass Technical High School from 1984 to 1987. Following that, in 1987, they graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Fundamentals: Issues & Texts from the University of Chicago. Later on, they pursued a PhD in Science Education at Vanderbilt University, although the exact dates for this program are not mentioned.