June 8, 2021 – Decatur native Tina Owens has assumed the role of VP of Operations at Children’s Museum of Illinois. The position was previously held by President & CEO Abby Koester, who began serving in an interim capacity in September, 2020. The museum recently opened to the public again after a thirteen month closure, meaning the time was right to fill what Koester calls a linchpin position.
“We had stripped the staff back as far as we could during the pandemic,” says Koester. “Now that we are up and running again, it’s critical we have someone who can manage the many operational needs of the facility.”
Owens is a graduate of Richland Community College and Millikin University. She has over 15 years of experience working with area youth-oriented nonprofits, as well as for-profit organizations, having previously worked with Girl Scouts of Central Illinois, Macon Resources Bright Start Program, PDI (Professional Development Institute), and Decatur Public Schools.
She also currently serves on the board for the Decatur Township Youth Council. Koester says Owens is a great fit for the museum. “We have what I consider to be one of the strongest creative teams this museum has ever had. With Tina, I believe we will now be equally strong on the administration side.” Owens says she looks forward to contributing to the museum’s forward momentum.
“I know they got the wind knocked out of them from the pandemic, so to be able to jump in and help set the direction for the future is exciting,” says Owens.
Children’s Museum of Illinois is currently open Thursdays through Saturdays 9:30 am to 4:30 pm and Sundays noon to 4:30 pm. In-person Summer Camp at the museum is scheduled to begin June 17 and 18, each day catering to a different age group. Camps will run weekly through August 6th. Additional information can be found at CMofIL.org or by calling 217-423-5437.
