Oh Wow! Children’s Center Plans Major Initiatives

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Oh Wow! The Roger & Gloria Jones Children’s Center for Science & Technology in Youngstown is planning several major initiatives in 2023.

Phase 4 of the center’s renovation project will provide an improved user experience floor design on its lower level and first floor, says Marvin Logan, executive director. The center will also expand its community education space with outdoor areas and new spaces throughout the building. Design plans include an immersive virtual reality classroom, digital collaboration lab and a 3D-printing and advanced manufacturing learning lab.

Average daily attendance is nearing pre-pandemic numbers with more than 34,000 visitors in 2022, according to Logan. After-school and outreach programs are growing with over 14,000 learners. And more than 500,000 STEM student activity kits have been distributed.

Silly Science Sunday attracted 5,000 visitors, Logan says. More than 300 guests attended Science of Brewing and more than 50 learners participated in Ohio Tech Day.

“Oh Wow! spent much of 2022 studying the experience of our community ecosystem and is excited to continue allowing our staff to fulfill our mission,” Logan says.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.