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 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, field trip organizers, collaborating partners, and individual participants. She oversees the facilitation of space mission simulations in the Challenger Learning Center and ensures all equipment and technology are properly maintained. Annually, she helps run the Science on State Street festival (April), GSK Science in the Summer programs (Summer), and Massachusetts STEM Week activities (October). Finally, she assists with the execution of marketing and promotional materials for the McAuliffe Center and MSEN.

Suzanne received her Bachelor of Arts in History from Framingham State University and minored in Museum Studies, Business Administration, and Irish Studies. She first joined the McAuliffe Center as an intern working on NASA’s Universe of Learning resources and the Moon Landing in Context initiative. 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 Event Manager
jgreenwood1@framingham.edu

Justine manages events, marketing, communications, web design, and social media for both the McAuliffe Center and MetroWest STEM Education Network (managed by the McAuliffe Center). She implements her skills in graphic design to promote the McAuliffe Center’s educational programs, public events and special events. Annually, Justine organizes Framingham State University’s science festival, Science on State Street and Massachusetts STEM Week events. Finally, Justine heavily contributes to the execution and facilitation of the Perspectives of Earth - Team Mentorship & Internship program throughout the spring and summer.

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.

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.

PART-TIME STAFF

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

Alyson Rankin
Planetarium Program Presenter
arankin@framingham.edu

Alyson researches, develops, and delivers live and interactive planetarium presentations for audiences of all ages. She has created new planetarium content through DigitalSky Dark Matter Planetarium Software to educate and inspire community members. After interning with the INTUITIVE Planetarium at the Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville AL, Alyson wanted to bring the planetarium magic back home with her to the McAuliffe Center! Alyson is constantly adding new content as it is released from ongoing earth-based and space-based missions. Her hallmark shows include tours of seasonal night sky objects and the solar system as well as special events such as Halloween Spooky Skies. 

Alyson received her Bachelor’s of Science in Planetary Science from Purdue University and is eager to share her knowledge with the community. She hopes to engage the public in a meaningful and fun way to inspire more interest in space exploration and discovery. 

Robert Pierzynski
Planetarium Program Presenter
rpierzynski@framingham.edu

Robert is the newest planetarium presenter for the McAuliffe Center and is eager to engage with everyone. As a researcher in physics and astronomy, Robert worked on the development of a CubeSat satellite at UMass Lowell that was launched by the International Space Station into low-Earth orbit. He also conducted research on the interiors of Uranus and Neptune which he plans to implement in his shows. As an amateur astronomer, he is passionate about exploring and photographing the universe with his backyard telescope while also sharing his love of the universe to all who are interested. 

Robert earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in physics from UMass Lowell, and wants to use his in-depth knowledge about astrophysics to educate the public about the cosmos. He hopes to inspire everyone to get involved in science!

STEM PROGRAM FACILITATORS

WORK STUDY

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