‘Make learning exciting, accessible:’ Meet OH WOW!’s new executive director in Youngstown
Katie Seminara-DeToro is returning to a familiar role in the Mahoning Valley helping students and families have fun while learning STEM education.
She’s just accepted a new role as executive director of the OH WOW! Children’s Center for Science and Technology in Youngstown.
“OH WOW! is and will be a fundamental building block of Youngstown and the greater Mahoning Valley,” said DeToro. “I’m elated to join a team that has been working diligently to make learning exciting and accessible to community members of all ages. With an already stellar mission and foundation, I have no doubt that [the] center’s future is bright.”
DeToro worked at OH WOW! as an associate director ten years ago.
According to Ellie Platt, board president of OH WOW!, DeToro was selected out of “50 qualified candidates” who applied for executive director.
“Her experience, ...passion for education and love for our community make her the perfect leader to guide us into the future. We are confident that under her leadership, OH WOW! will continue to thrive and make a positive impact on downtown Youngstown and beyond. We are delighted to welcome Katie as our new executive director,” said Platt.
DeToro is expected to start at OH WOW! in August.
What’s happening this summer at OH WOW!
This summer, visit OH WOW! for 60 hands-on, interactive exhibits on two levels open to families in the greater Youngstown area.
This Sunday, watch hands-on demonstrations about the science behind fireworks from noon - 1 p.m. on the exhibit floor of the center.
For adults, mark your calendars for this year’s Science of Brewing-- an evening of live entertainment, wine, beer, and spirit tastings, plus hands-on science exhibits and experiments.
It’s happening at OH WOW! from 6 - 9 p.m. Aug. 9 downtown.
Starting Aug. 25, check out the monthly STEM story and activity get-togethers at noon until 2 p.m. in the InspireWorks Lab.
This fall, OH WOW! hosts the indoor and outdoor Silly Science Sunday STEAM Festival downtown.
They’re looking for exhibitors, sponsors and food vendors interested in participating from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Sept. 15 for Silly Science Sunday.
Here’s information on where to park and which entrance to use during downtown construction and closures.
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