Special to the Tribune-Star
TERRE HAUTE —
The Terre Haute Children’s Museum has announced that Jamie McDowell will join the staff as the membership and volunteer coordinator. He is set to begin his new role on Monday.
As the membership and volunteer coordinator, McDowell will oversee the Museum’s membership and volunteer programs. He will be responsible for a wide range of activities related to membership and volunteer recruitment and retention, including relationship-building, strategic planning, database management, special events, community relations, volunteer development and budget management.
“I couldn’t be more excited about being a part of the team that helps usher in this spectacular new facility for the children of our community,” McDowell said. “The museum has certainly progressed over the years; I remember spending Saturdays at science classes in the basement of Central Christian Church.”
McDowell currently serves as the director of membership development for the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce. In this role, he managed the sales and retention of member businesses; developed new membership programs; wrote press releases and coordinated events; assisted with marketing and social media efforts; and coordinated the Chamber’s Ambassador volunteer group.
Before joining the Chamber, McDowell served as a station manager and a morning show personality for Midwest Communications in Terre Haute. In this position, he managed the day-to-day operations of the station; built a successful morning show; assisted with sales and wrote copy for commercials; worked with media relations and served as public relations liaison; managed the station’s website; and set up and coordinated live events and concerts within the community.
McDowell has also held previous positions as assistant cross country coach for Terre Haute North Vigo High School and videographer for WTHI-TV. He is a 2002 graduate of Indiana State University with a bachelor’s degree in communications.
“Jamie’s educational background and his professional experiences have given him a wide range of skills that make him a perfect fit for this position,” said Lynn Hughes, executive director of the Terre Haute Children’s Museum. “In addition, he is creative, passionate about his work and very dedicated to our community. With the grand opening of the new museum quickly approaching, we are thrilled to have him as part of the team, and we look forward to working with him to ensure that the museum continues to grow and thrive for years to come.”
Since it opened its doors in 1988, the Terre Haute Children’s Museum has been a fun and exciting destination for children and families, and the Museum’s mission is to “enrich our children’s lives through the exploration of science and technology.”
The Museum is currently in a capital campaign for a new 26,000-square-foot facility, which will include a wide range of hands-on science and technology exhibits.
To date, the Museum has received donations of nearly $5.1 million toward a goal of $5.5 million. Sponsorship opportunities are still available, including naming area rights and exhibit sponsorships. Individuals, families, groups, organizations and businesses can also put their names on the Children’s Museum by sponsoring a brick or limestone.
