In 2014, Stephanie Deschenes took a leave from Science North to join the Canadian Association of Science Centres (CASC) as the Executive Director. During her secondment, Stephanie and her staff have increased membership and strengthened CASC’s role nationally. There is no doubt that the Innovation 150 initiative would not have been nearly as successful if not for Stephanie’s dedication to the project and commitment to the members of CASC.

In the fall of 2017, Stephanie informed the Board of Directors of CASC that she would be returning to Science North at the end of June 2018. While we knew her departure would leave a big gap in our organization, we also recognized that we had an opportunity to build on Stephanie’s good work and make CASC a stronger organization.

With this knowledge, we immediately began the process of planning for and initiating an extensive national search process for her successor. We were pleased to have received numerous resumes from across the country from very strong candidates. After completing a formal interview process, I am thrilled to announce Dr. Marianne Mader has accepted our offer of employment to be the new Executive Director of CASC.

Marianne comes to us with a wealth of knowledge, experience and a vast network in the science field that CASC and our Members will certainly benefit from. Currently, Marianne is the Managing Director, Earth & Space and Fossils & Evolution Centres of Discovery at the Royal Ontario Museum. She is also the Co-Founder of STEAMLabs makerspace.

Marianne has a PhD in Planetary Science and Exploration from the University of Western Ontario, an MSc in Space Studies from the International Space University, an MSc in Earth Sciences from Memorial University of Newfoundland and a BSc in Geology from the University of New Brunswick. Marianne’s professional and volunteer experience includes a wide range of Board and committee appointments, keynote presentations and conference organization.

If you don’t already know her, those of you attending the CASC Conference in Prince George May 9 - 11 will have the opportunity to meet Marianne and attend a session she is presenting.  She will also participate in board discussions and strategic planning.

Marianne will officially join CASC on June 4 and will work through a 4-week transition with Stephanie.  As Marianne’s home is in Toronto we have made arrangements for her to maintain an office there while the CASC head office will remain at Science North where Tina Leduc, Office Manager will be located.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Canadian Association of Science Centres, I extend our deepest gratitude to Stephanie for her commitment to CASC and welcome Marianne to the association.

Steve Baker
President, Board of Directors
Canadian Association of Science Centres