Behind the scenes of every science centre and museum are teams of passionate individuals dedicated to inspiring their communities in the realm of science. Recently, two longstanding leaders have stepped down from their respective roles: Bridget Holligan from Science Oxford, and Hermione Cockburn from Dynamic Earth. Alongside their outstanding contributions to science engagement and education, they have also supported the sector in their roles as ASDC trustees for many years.
Hermione Cockburn is leaving Dynamic Earth after almost a decade as Scientific Director. For six of those years she has been a trustee of ASDC, a role which she will also be moving on from. Hermione first got a taste of the science education sector 25 years ago, starting work at Dynamic Earth around the time it opened in 1999 as part of the Millenium Commission. As one of the original Education Officers there, her eyes were opened to the role that science and discovery centres play in our society. After a variety of jobs in research, teaching and presenting, Hermione returned to Dynamic Earth as Scientific Director in 2014.
Left to right: ASDC Deputy chair Donna Speed, Bridget Holligan, Hermione Cockburn, Tudor Gwyn (ASDC trustee and treasurer) inside a giant set of teeth at Eureka! Children's Museum.
"I really have loved every minute of the job – I could not be prouder of what the Dynamic Earth team deliver and I leave safe in the knowledge that the centre’s mission “to empower people with understanding and empathy for the Earth” is in more than capable hands. Being involved with ASDC via projects like Operation Earth, as well as serving as a trustee on the Board, has been a great privilege - the commitment and enthusiasm of all involved is remarkable and I am so grateful for all the opportunities, including the most amazing trip to CERN!"
Hermione Cockburn
After almost 28 years at Science Oxford (The Oxford Trust), Bridget Holligan is stepping down as Director of Science and Engagement, whilst remaining as a trustee of the ASDC. She’s had various roles at the Trust, joining as an Education Projects Assistant in 1996. During her time there, she has worked on the Thinking, Doing, Talking Science project, led the creation of the Science Oxford Centre, and was the winner of the Beetlestone Award for vision, leadership and legacy in Informal Science Learning in 2020.
"It's been a privilege to work for The Oxford Trust for over 27 years and to lead the Science Oxford education and engagement programme according to the vision of the Trust's founders Sir Martin and Lady Wood."
Bridget Holligan
Hermione and Bridget have made their mark in the world of science education and engagement, and we are proud to recognise and celebrate their notable achievements. Their dedication has made a significant impact on both their respective centres, and the ASDC. We are so thankful for all their support as trustees, and wish them all the best for their next adventures. Both are planning to stay involved in the science education sector, and we look forward to seeing them at the ASDC Conference in November.
Header photo shows Bridget Holligan, Cait Campbell and Hermione Cockburn at the ASDC Conference 2023 at W5 in Belfast.