Staff

Jenn Moore believes EUREKA! is an intersection of math, science, and art—bringing students and the community together for exhibitions, hands-on activities, and classroom learning. Moore hopes to make EUREKA! a magnet for creativity, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. She hopes to redefine the way people think about, learn about, and interact with science and technology by making science fun for everyone.

Moore comes to EUREKA! from the Timberline Field Institute at Colorado Mountain College in Leadville where she taught courses in Natural Resource Management. Having always had a passion for science and teaching, she developed new programs, wrote grants for student driven research, and managed an internship program for students to have hands-on work experience. Previous to her work at the college she was a research hydrologist for the US Geological Survey in Grand Junction. Her educational background is in Biological Systems Engineering from Virginia Tech and Environmental Engineering from Colorado State University.

In her free time Moore enjoys mountain biking, gardening, reading books, and traveling the world with her husband Jesse and their daughters Madalyn and Acadia.

Christina joined EUREKA! in 2018 as the STEAM instructor. She is originally from the Philadelphia area, and earned a bachelor’s degree in Geology from Bryn Mawr College. After graduating, she moved to New York City and earned a Master of Arts in Teaching Earth Science from The American Museum of Natural History.

Following graduate school, Christina taught middle and high school science in New York City. In the summer of 2017, she journeyed across the Atlantic to work at The American School of Tangier in Morocco, where she taught middle school science and coached elementary science. In 2023, Christina completed her M.Ed in Teaching and Leadership from Colorado Mesa University.

Christina enjoys living in Grand Junction and being a part of the EUREKA! team, where she hopes to continue growing the educational programs. In her free time she likes hiking, reading, running, cooking, and traveling with her husband, Kishan.

Originally from Minnesota, Phaedra completed her B.S. in Biomedical Engineering at the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, is currently working towards an advanced certification in Nutrition Education, and joined EUREKA! in early 2019. A rat lover, you will most likely find her with one (or more!) of the resident rats in tow. When not practicing Muay Thai or jiu jitsu, Phaedra spends her free time hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, and playing with her furry family of cats, rats, and goats.

Deanna grew up in Mesa, Colorado and has spent most of her life on the Western Slope. She earned her Associates of Arts and Early Childhood Education Certificate from Front Range Community College and finished her Bachelors of Arts in Sociology and minor in Gender Studies from Colorado Mesa University. She is currently working on her Masters of Science in Organizational Leadership through Mercyhurst University. She served roughly three years in administrative roles at Colorado Mesa University, interning in the Admissions Office and Engagement Coordinator with TRIO Student Support Services. After a year as the Youth Programs Manager here at EUREKA!, Deanna moved into the Operations Director role.

In her spare time, you can find her mountain biking, hiking, fishing, camping, reading or doing yoga. She is so thrilled to be part of the EUREKA! Team and instill a love of science and education in the local community.

Briana (aka “B”) joined the EUREKA! team in 2018. She is motivated by EUREKA!'s mission to inspire a passion and respect for math and science in our communities. B considers it an honor to be involved in EUREKA!'s programs from leading Pre-K family programs to travelling with active adults over 55 and working with volunteers to maintain exhibits.

Prior to joining EUREKA!, Briana taught outdoor education in Montana and at Colorado National Monument. She also taught 9th and 10th grade science at Juniper Ridge Community School in Grand Junction.

B loves to spend time outside, exploring with her husband, Paul and kids, Wren and Fisher.

My name is Vonnie Davis and I have graduated in 2011 from CMU with a degree in sociology. I have many years of experience working with kids and enjoy the different experiences each child brings. In my down time I love reading, going to the movies, traveling, and spending time with my family and friends. I am happy to be a part of the EUREKA! staff and getting the chance to meet new people.

Shannon is excited to join the EUREKA! team in May of 2020! She completed her BA in Liberal Arts with an Elementary Education License from Colorado Mesa University. Prior to her work with Eureka!, Shannon taught kindergarten and first grade for 5 years in District 51. She is excited to continue cultivating curiosity and expanding the minds of children through the education programs at Eureka! She is originally from Denver, but has fallen in love with the Western Slope. In her free time, Shannon enjoys hiking, backpacking, running, and exploring our beautiful state with her husband, Drew, her son, Charlie, and their dog, Millie.

Erika is thrilled to be joining the stellar team at EUREKA! She believes strongly in the power of outdoor education, hands-on learning, and the natural sciences — and the Environmental Institute at EUREKA! is the intersection of all three! Erika approaches nature as an observer and with a sense of curiosity, she is excited to introduce students to this way of exploring. She is especially passionate about ecology, biodiversity, and symbiotic relationships in nature. 

For the past eight years, Erika has been working in public education. Most recently, she worked as the Program Director for a school-based outdoor education program in the Denver area. In her free time you can find Erika exploring the quieter nooks & crannies of our state with her husband and dog; mountain biking, backcountry skiing, rock climbing, or backpacking. 

For Erika, the joy of outdoor pursuits lies in their ability to take you to new spaces. In recent years, Erika’s favorite way of exploring has been bikepacking; she has ridden some obscure routes as well as some more well-known routes such as the Kokopelli Trail, the Colorado Trail, and the White Rim. If you run into Erika on local trails, she’d love to stop and chat.

Kristen was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona but has called Grand Junction home since 2018. She studied Biology with a concentration in Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology. Kristen loves being a part of EUREKA’s Environmental Institute because it combines her love for the outdoors with her passion for science. She believes there is nothing more empowering than teaching students how to recreate responsibly, while simultaneously showing them they can accomplish things they never thought possible and instilling a sense of curiosity for the environment around them. As an avid cyclist who has been a coach for Grand Valley Youth Cycling for several years, Kristen especially loves bringing her experience to EUREKA’s mountain bike programming. In her free time she enjoys biking, running, climbing, and most other forms of recreating outdoors. When at home she prefers to read a good book and snuggle up with her cat Momo.

Kelsey is overjoyed to be part of the Eureka! team, engaging in science education in the outdoors! She is a recent arrival to Grand Junction from Salt Lake City, where she was using her masters degree in bilingual education to teach dual immersion first grade. She has spent many years teaching all age groups in a variety of beautiful places including Oregon, Utah, Chile, Peru, Bolivia, and the Dominican Republic. The Environmental Institute combines her passion for sparking children's natural curiosity with her love of the mountains and the desert.  She spends her free time skiing, biking, painting, and exploring with an ever-increasing community of wonderful people and dogs.

Hello! My name is Joely Anysz, and I am originally from Upstate New York and Northern Colorado. I graduated from Colorado Mesa University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science with an emphasis in ecosystem management. While at CMU I grew fascinated with local sagebrush ecosystems and the Gunnison sage grouse. I enjoy learning about the soil beneath our feet and the many different aspects that join to create the ecosystem that surrounds us every day! I am so excited to be able to introduce so many students to the wonderful interdisciplinary world of STEAM! In my free time I can be found cycling, painting, and hanging out with my two one-eyed tuxedo cats, Captain and Chewie. 

Michelle holds an Associate Degree in Applied Sciences from Colorado Mountain College. She has worked in the Media & Publishing industry as Photo Editor, Advertising Director , and Co-Publisher since 2009. Michelle always says “if you want to try and make a difference in your community , get involved and volunteer!

Natalie is a part-time STEAM Instructor, with a Bachelors of Science in Outdoor Recreational Studies. Natalie helps with Friday STEAM and No School Day Camps, After School sites, and tutoring in District 51. Natalie also supports the Environmental Institute by assisting with trips throughout the Grand Valley.

Nichole is excited to join the EUREKA! team in 2023.  She has a passion for science, hands-on learning, going outdoors, and never misses an opportunity to give a science lesson.  She graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a degree in Earth Science and Secondary Education.  She taught high school science in the Detroit area for six years and taught every type of science class – Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Earth Science, Astronomy, and GED Math & Science Prep.  In 2014, Nichole and her family moved to the Denver area to live a more adventurous life in the mountains.  In 2023, she and her husband moved to Grand Junction to live a simpler life, ride bikes, and explore the Western Slope.  In her free time, she is riding or racing her bike, hiking, or trying out a new recipe.  She also has two cats –  her "mitten kitten" Jasmine (who is polydactyl) and Izzy.

Callie grew up in Grand Junction, and was always interested in music and the sciences. They went on to attain a Bachelor's Degree in Chemistry from Oakland University before returning to give back to their home. Now, they love to inspire students about science, and spend their free time writing, painting, and developing community!

Hello my name is Michelle McAnany and I am the Supplies Manager.  I have a degree in Fashion Merchandising and believe it or not that helps with this job.  I love to be outdoors doing biking, skiing, walking the dog and gardening with my friends or family.  I am excited to work with so many fun people and help support the teachers and students learn new things.

Trigg Skoe supports the Environmental Institution at Eureka! as a part-time instructor. Trigg grew up in Montrose, Colorado and graduated from Colorado State University with a bachelor's degree in Geology Education. For the past 4 years he has been a science teacher in the Grand Valley and Montrose area. He is an experienced outdoor enthusiast that enjoys mountain biking, fly fishing, whitewater rafting/kayaking, and anything else outside. He can be found in the desert much of the year traveling in his campervan with his wife and two dogs. Trigg is a great supporter of stewardship and STEAM education in the outdoors.

Lizards, and geckos, and snakes, oh my! Austin is a fan of anything scaly, and loves to spend time with all sorts of reptiles and amphibians. Austin currently helps care for the live exhibits here at the museum in addition to a collection of his own at home including a leopard gecko, tiger salamander, sonoran desert toad, ball python, boa imperator, russian tortoise, two kenyan sand boas, and a small fish tank! He also likes to cruise around the valley on his motorcycle, spend time outside hiking and slacklining, and enjoy the company of friends for some board games. Austin is currently expanding on his B.S. in Biological Sciences by going to CMU for a certificate in Data Science.

Hello!  My name is Christine Wright, and I am so excited to join the Eureka! McConnell Science Museum staff in 2023 as a Steam Instructor, Math tutor, and after-school site supervisor.  I come from the sunny state of Florida, where I graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education.  I also completed post-baccalaureate classes in Visual Arts from the University of South Florida and Eckerd College, focusing on Ceramics and Drawing.  I worked in the Hillsborough County school system as a Middle School Art teacher and for the non-profit organization Prodigy Cultural Arts Program, teaching students 7-17 self-esteem and empowerment skills through Visual Arts, Performing Arts, and educational tutoring.  Before becoming an education major and Art teacher, I was a microbiology major, so I love science!  Whenever I created Art lessons, I would discuss the scientific, engineering, or mathematical processes occurring in creating art.  I am happy that here at Eureka, I can combine my loves of science, art, and educating children!  In my free time, I love to draw and make pottery on my wheel at home.  I also love to go hiking and biking in the glorious mountains around Grand Junction with my husband, Rob, and my son, Max.

My name is Joy Davis and I am thrilled to be celebrating my 20th year as a Pre-K teacher! I am a Grand Junction native and I am very close to my family. My mother, Kathy, and my father, Don, love to be Grandma Kathy and Grandpa Don in the classroom. I hope you meet them this year! My older brother, Craig, lives in Hawaii and I love to go visit him whenever I can! I own a home with my best friend, Tom, and we have two babies - our dogs, Olaf and Ditch. When I am not in the classroom, I love to play with my dogs, ride my bike, go camping, watch movies, and read lots of books! I feel extremely privileged to be a part of your child's entry into the education journey! I believe that as Pre-K teachers, we have a very unique opportunity to make a lasting impression in the lives of our students. We are blessed with the chance to foster not only a love of learning, but also a love of living, with our children! We are so pleased that you have decided to become a part of our Nest family! Welcome to our classroom and to our year of educational adventure!

Hello! My name is Quinn Shea. I am from Aurora, Co, but have lived all around the Denver area. I studied Elementary Education Math and Applied Geology at Colorado Mesa University for 3 years and 1 year of Geology focus in Volcanics and Geothermal Engineering at Metropolitan State University Denver. I hope to finish these and work at Yellowstone or at a geologic site somewhere in Colorado! I have wide variety of interests form video games, fantasy, and art; to ice skating, rock hounding, or just being in nature. Basically, all the fun stuff!

I recently moved back out to Grand Junction for the scenery and a place to take my dog Bastion to run around with my husband and myself. I am so excited to be at EUREKA! and NEST and share the fun of science with kids and adults alike!

Gilberto G. Ramírez Macías joined EUREKA! in 2021 as the AmiGOs Coordinator. He is originally from Aguascalientes, México. 

Gilberto earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish Literature and Language with a Minor in Mass Communication from Colorado Mesa University. After graduating he started working for School District 51/Migrant Education Program as Outreach specialist. Gilberto has been working for Suehiro Japanese Restaurant since August 2005-now. 

He worked as bilingual teller/personal banker for Wells Fargo Clifton branch from March 2018-May 2021.

He participated as board member of the Western Colorado Latino Chamber of Commerce from January 2020 - September 2021.

He was certified as VIA trainer from John Hanley’s Transformational coaching academy in Los Ángeles, CA on 2016.

He was certified as transformational coach from the ATC Academia de Transformación Contemporánea in México July 2019.

He is the founder- director of Via Vitae LLC, Transformational coaching academy established on February 2020 and that serves the Latino community on the Western Colorado.

My name is Rosa. I’m a native Californian but I love Colorado.  My husband and I have lived in Grand Junction for over 30 years and I couldn’t think of a better place to raise my twin boys. Recently I retired from my teacher position at School District #51.  I love crafting, sewing and hanging out with my family.

Hi! My name is Declan Atwell and I am majoring in Mathematics with an emphasis on Secondary Education at CMU. I enjoy how math helps us describe, explore, and understand our world and I have always been enthusiastic about teaching. I'm very excited to be at Eureka! teaching young learners about STEAM. In my free time, I am exploring the outdoors in new and exciting ways. I love to expand my comfort zone and build resilience by rock climbing, highlining, and whitewater kayaking. I hope to inspire and be inspired by your kiddos :)

Ethan is originally from Olympia Washington and transferred to CMU to complete his bachelor's degree in chemistry. He has worked with youths since 2014 and loves to assist kids in discovering their potential and pushing boundaries on what they believe they are capable of doing. Outside of the classroom, you can find him at the pump track skating or out in Unaweep Canyon exploring and climbing.

Hi my name is Elise Barnes. I am a senior at CMU getting my degree in Nursing and a minor in Business Administration. I am also an active member in one of the sororities on campus, Alpha Sigma Alpha. When I am at Eureka it is usually because there is a birthday party happening!!!! When I'm not busy with school or work, I love to bake, cook, paint, watch movies or hangout with my cat, Willow!

Hello, my name is Alex Campbell and I am from Denver, Colorado. I have been in Grand Junction for five years studying mechanical engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder through the CMU Engineering Partnership program. I am very excited to be a member of the EUREKA! staff maintaining and developing new exhibits. In my free time I enjoy mountain biking, skiing, and exploring the great outdoors. I hope to create a fun and interactive environment where kids can learn about science.

Hello! My name is Christopher (CJ) Carter. I have taught or tutored in District 51 / CMU since 2012 and now I am happy to be a math tutor for EUREKA science museum! My degree is a B.S. in Chemistry with an emphasis on analytical and instrumental techniques. When I am not teaching I am a hobbyist mycologist, programmer, and researcher on thermal degradation of fermentation compounds. I have lived in Grand Junction, CO most of my life and hope to inspire people to be life long learners.

Hello! My name is Kennedy and I am from Broomfield, Colorado. I am a junior at CMU studying elementary education with an emphasis in English. In my free time, I love to be outside, doing things like rock climbing, hiking, paddle boarding, and running! I love teaching and helping kids develop a passion for learning, so I am very excited to be here at Eureka!

Parker is studying psychology at Colorado Mesa University, and helps with STEAM Camps, After School programming, birthday parties, and co-leads the supply team at EUREKA!

My name is Aimee Groth and one of my passions is spreading excitement for learning. Originally from Denver, I moved to the Western Slope in 2018. I am a CU Denver Graduate with a Fine Arts degree. Since I moved to the Western Slope, I have been working in academics with students of all ages. I enjoy being part of the learning process - watching students overcome challenges and build on their knowledge is rewarding. With EUREKA! I have the opportunity to be part of a unique learning environment and look forward to working with many more young people.

Hi! My name is Adam Henry and I am majoring in K-12 Art Education with an emphasis on Secondary Education at CMU. I love art and  how it helps to stay creative, invent,  and look at the world from other's perspectives. I have always enjoyed teaching and I'm excited to be at EUREKA! In my free time, I enjoy creating art, playing guitar, board sports, reading and hockey. I look forward to sharing my passion for art and learning to students!

Roberto is a part-time math tutor, from Mexico City. Transferred CMU to pursue a bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering through the CU Boulder partnership program. He has past experience from a bachelors physics program and enjoys spreading curiosity and fun in both mathematics and science for children. He is excited to be able to provide help in EUREEKA's hands-on projects and exhibits. Outside of the classroom, you can find him at the Community Hospital Unity Field playing soccer for the CMU Mavericks.

Hello! My name is Bryan Hillman, I’m a freshman at CMU majoring in Secondary Education: History. I’m a huge fan of history, and history interconnects with science in so many ways. In my free time, I enjoy playing video games, writing, and playing tabletop board/card games. I’m excited to help out, and learn skills through EUREKA!

Hello! My name is Andrew Jordan and I am one of the critter care specialists at EUREKA! I am currently pursuing a biology degree at CMU. I hope to work with animals as my future career which is why I love my job. I get to continually learn how to care for different types of animals which I can use in the future. In my spare time I can be found watching/playing sports, practicing guitar, or hanging out with my friends and family.

Hi! My name is Toni Marsh. I graduated from CU Boulder in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. I have tutored a wide variety of math from 6th grade all the way up to Calculus. I am currently a tutor with EUREKA! at Orchard Mesa Middle School. My goal for my students is to take pride in their schoolwork and learn to love math! Outside of class, you can spot me cheering for the CU football team… SKO BUFFS!

Hi everyone! My name is Pete Noreen. I Study Environmental Science and Outdoor Recreation at CMU. I really enjoy sharing my passion for the natural sciences and the outdoors through outdoor education. I am super excited to help younger students develop a passion for STEAM. In my free time I enjoy rock climbing, hiking, and mountaineering. I can't wait to get out and have some fun with students!!

Hi! My name is Katie Ray and I am currently a student at Colorado Mesa University. I am studying elementary education with an emphasis in English! I have always loved teaching and I have a strong passion to inspire a love for learning in kids, and I believe STEAM education is super beneficial for everyone. When I'm not at school or work, you'll find me hiking, camping, skiing, or reading a book. I am so excited to begin my adventure at EUREKA!

Nathan originally came to Grand Junction in 2020 from Fairbanks, Alaska, to finish his undergraduate degree in statistics. After graduating with that degree, Nathan decided to come back, and is now working towards an MBA at CMU. Being from one of the coldest parts of the country, Nathan loves winter sports, particularly cross-country skiing. He also competes on the cross-country and track teams at CMU while he works on finishing up his degree.

Hello! My name is Kylee, and I am from Fruita, Colorado. I am currently a CMU student working to get my BFA in Studio Arts with a emphasis on ceramics. I love to spend my free time camping, fishing, rock climbing, making art, and spending time with my pets. I began working at Eureka in the summer of 2021 and have looked forward to going to work everyday! Teaching kids to be curious, creative, and kind is one of my greatest passions and I am so lucky to be apart of the Eureka team! 

Hi, I’m Hailey! I graduated from CMU in 2020 with a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education. I taught Kindergarten after graduation and instantly loved it. I love to read, spend time with my family and watch my daughter grow! I enjoy working with kiddos and am thankful EUREKA! allows me to do that.

Hey there, I’m Sophie! I’m originally from the front range and am currently a BSN student at CMU. I love kiddos and it’s my passion to enrich kids lives through both teaching and medical care. In my free time I love spending time with my pitbull mix, Benny, or outside in nature skiing, paddle-boarding or hiking. I’m so blessed to a part of the EUREKA! team and I can’t wait to continue to learn so much from these bright young students.”

I'm a student with Colorado Mountain College getting an Associate of Arts! I was born in California but have grown up here in Grand Junction Colorado. I'm a firm believer that knowledge is power and am passionate about education. I love being outdoors rafting, hiking, camping. Being outside fuels my creativity! I love all forms of art and creative expression. 

Emilie transferred from Colorado Springs to CMU to pursue a degree in computer engineering. She has worked in child education since 2019 and enjoys sharing her enthusiasm for math and science with the kids she works with. When not in the classroom she enjoys mountain biking,

hiking, and rock climbing.

Hello! I am Santiago Valdez, and I am an at-home dad who recently left New Mexico and a position as a science teacher for the beautiful Grand Valley. I love learning everything about the natural world, and I love to share that knowledge with others in meaningful and creative ways. Which is why I completed my B.S. in science education and then my M.S.ed. in STEM curriculum and instruction. You can find me exploring the Grand Valley with my family, working on learning something new, or taking a break with some video games.

Hi all! My name is William Vrooman and I am from Mack, Colorado. I decided to stay in the Grand valley to purse my degree in Mechanical Engineering with the hopes of eventually going into robotics. I love taking things apart, figuring out how they work, then rebuilding them with a better understanding of how they function. When I’m not repairing exhibits or creating new ones, I am spending my time with friends, as well as my partner and our lovely kitten Athena. I also practice voices and accents a hobby!