The Shadow
ROANOKE, Va. –
The Science Museum of Western Virginia is aware of recent media reports regarding our future at Center in the Square. While this information was not shared by museum leadership or our board, we understand the questions and concerns it may raise. We want to speak directly to our community about who we are, why we exist, and where we are headed
More than 50 years ago, this museum was created by local teachers, people who understood that science doesn’t live only in textbooks or behind classroom desks. They believed curiosity should be touched, built, explored, and experienced. They founded this museum so students could step outside the page and into discovery.
That spirit still drives everything we do.
Throughout our history, we have called many places home. But one thing has never changed: our deep partnership with local schools, organizations, and families.
Today, the Science Museum is in classrooms across Roanoke City, Roanoke County, Salem, and Botetourt every single day. Our educators bring hands-on science directly to students, ensuring learning continues far beyond a single field trip.
We serve:
- Afterschool programs
- Preschool classrooms
- Community centers
- Partner organizations supporting early childhood learning
Our reach extends well beyond our walls. For many children, we are their first exposure to real science experiments, robotics, animals, and inquiry-based learning. We meet students where they are in their neighborhoods, their schools, and their communities.
This is what we do:
We spark curiosity.
We make science accessible.
We show every child that they belong in STEM.
Like many nonprofit institutions, we are actively planning for long-term sustainability. We are having thoughtful conversations about what the next chapter of the Science Museum should look like: how we grow, how we serve more students, and how we ensure our impact continues for generations to come.
Change can feel uncertain. But it can also be powerful.
What we know with certainty:
- The Science Museum is not leaving the Roanoke Valley.
- Our programs will continue as scheduled throughout all of 2026.
- Our commitment to this region is unwavering
As we move forward, we are committed to doing this with our community. In the coming weeks, we will be sharing more details and creating opportunities to listen, gather feedback, and engage families, teachers, alumni, and partners who have shaped this institution for decades.
Everyone in this region has a memory here, a first field trip, a science experiment gone slightly wrong, a moment when curiosity turned into confidence. Those stories matter. They are the heartbeat of who we are.
While there is uncertainty as to where the museum will live beyond 2026, we have been actively exploring options for our future home. We look forward to sharing more soon.
With appreciation,
Mary Roberts
Executive Director
Science Museum of Western Virginia
