FULL-TIME STAFF

Dr. Irene Porro
Director
iporro@framingham.edu

Dr. Irene Porro is the Direc­tor of the Christa Corrigan McAuliffe Center for Inte­grated Science Learning at Framingham State Univer­sity. Under her leadership, the Center adopted its new mission to be a leader in developing opportunities for integrated science learning through the sharing of re­sources, building of partner­ships, and the advancement of educational practices. She is also the lead for the MetroWest STEM Education Network Ecosystem, a mem­ber of an international com­munity of practice dedicated to promoting quality educa­tion and career pathways in science, technology, engi­neering, and mathematics.

A professional scientist with a deep commitment to social justice, in her work Dr. Porro combines research skills in physics and astro­physics with an interdisci­plinary approach to educa­tion to promote equity and diversity in STEM fields. She works to support initiatives where both the arts and the sciences are fully respected and valued.

Suzanne Wright
Assistant Director
swright4@framingham.edu

Suzanne manages the operations for informal science education programs and public events offered by the McAuliffe Center and MetroWest STEM Education Network (MSEN). She assists groups schedule and prepare for McAuliffe Center programming by working directly with educators and field trip organizers. She oversees the facilitation of space mission simulations in the Challenger Learning Center and ensures equipment and technology are properly maintained. Annually, she helps run the Science on State Street festival (April) and Massachusetts STEM Week activities (October). Finally, she assists with the execution of marketing and promotional materials for the McAuliffe Center and MSEN, including social media content, newsletters, and websites.

Suzanne received her Bachelor of Arts in History from Framingham State University and minored in Museum Studies, Business Administration, and Irish Studies. She is passionate about hands-on learning that takes place outside of the classroom, non-profit organizations, and volunteering.

Ross Barros-Smith
Planetarium and Media Technology Manager
rbarrossmith@framingham.edu

Denise Lau
Administrative Assistant
dlau@framingham.edu

Justine Greenwood
Communication and Digital Media Coordinator
jgreenwood1@framingham.edu

Justine implements her graphic design, web design, social media management and web management skills for the McAuliffe Center and MetroWest STEM Education Network. She manages the marketing, promotion, and facilitation of the Center’s educational programs and special events, like Science on State Street and Massachusetts STEM Week.

Justine is an alumna of Framingham State University where she received a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Graphic Design and minor in Art History. She believes art enhances STEM learning and understanding.

PART-TIME STAFF

Laura Bilazarian Purutyan
Workforce Development and Community Relations Specialist
lpurutyan@framingham.edu

Natalie Daly
Environmental & Sustainability Programs Coordinator
ndaly2@framingham.edu

Natalie works with high school students to introduce them to climate critical occupations and facilitates the development of environmental curricula and advocacy projects in her role as the Environmental and Sustainability Coordinator for the McAuliffe Center. She also uses her experience in environmental education and communication to implement community outreach and engagement programs for MassEnergize, in partnership with the McAuliffe Center.

Natalie holds a Masters degree in Environmental Science and Policy and a Bachelors in Environmental Studies, both from Clark University. She is passionate about science communication and making science accessible to all.

STEM PROGRAM FACILITATORS

WORK STUDY

Learn more about Work Study positions available at the McAuliffe Center.