Meet Our Team

With 30 years of experience in the museum field, Richard brings a lifelong passion for science, discovery and learning to OCM. His career has spanned collections and research, exhibit and experience design and executive leadership at renowned institutions including Carnegie Museum of Natural History, the Field Museum, Museum of the Earth, Yale Peabody Museum and most recently, The DoSeum in San Antonio. He also serves as an instructor in the Museum Studies graduate program at Johns Hopkins University.

A paleontologist at heart, Richard followed his childhood fascination with prehistoric life into a career in science and museums. He holds a PhD in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from the University of Toronto, a master’s degree in Geosciences from Texas Tech University and a bachelor’s degree in Geology with a specialization in Paleobiology from Bowling Green State University.

Since joining OCM in fall 2026, Richard has enjoyed leading a talented team dedicated to creating meaningful experiences for children, families and educators. He believes learning through play helps children discover their passions, build connections, explore the world around them and develop confidence. His favorite part of the job? Seeing the joy and excitement on children’s faces as they discover something new!

Richard’s favorite childhood toy was his beloved Snoopy plush, a well-traveled companion he still has today! And while he and his wife love seeking out carousels wherever they go, his favorite OCM exhibit is Imagination Playground, where he enjoys watching children move, investigate, imagine and discover through play.

Blending a background in finance, operations and the arts, Erin brings a unique perspective to her role at OCM. Her career includes work with international cultural institutions such as Tate Modern in London and leadership roles at Film Streams and Joslyn Art Museum. She holds degrees in Accounting and Fine Arts, including a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Southern California. As CFO, Erin oversees the Museum’s financial strategy and operations, helping turn creative ideas into lasting experiences for children and families. She believes learning through play builds curiosity, confidence and creativity that last a lifetime.

Growing up, Erin’s favorite toys were her Talking Whiz-Kid and Fisher-Price Record Player, fueling her love of trivia, music and discovery! Her favorite OCM exhibit is Forever Forest, where imaginative play and hands-on exploration help children discover the wonders of nature and sustainability.

With more than eight years of nonprofit development experience, Lauren brings expertise in major gifts, corporate sponsorships, grant writing and fundraising events to her role at OCM. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management with minors in Business and Leadership, along with a Certificate of Fundraising Management. Lauren loves connecting passionate people with meaningful opportunities to support the Museum’s mission, which has become even more special to her as a new mom.

A lifelong Blue’s Clues fan, Lauren had not one, but THREE Handy Dandy Notebooks, and even her own Thinking Chair! She even traveled from Sioux Falls to Omaha to see Blue’s Clues Live, her first-ever show. Her favorite OCM exhibit is the Hy-Vee Grocery Store, where she can relive childhood memories of ringing up groceries and exchanging pretend money. Plus, kids can shop to their hearts’ content without hearing “no!”

From building brands to creating memorable experiences, Mandy has spent more than 22 years bringing ideas to life through marketing, communications, events and executive leadership. She previously served as Vice President of Marketing, Communications and Events at Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. Her background also includes serving as Chief Operating Officer overseeing 12 subsidiary organizations, owner and operator of a corporate events business and curriculum developer, creating educational content for young learners. At OCM, she combines her passion for storytelling and strategic growth to connect more families with the joy of learning through play.

Mandy’s favorite childhood toys were her roller skates, but she was just as happy taking things apart and putting them back together. Her dad even bought her a very own set of pink tools! It’s no surprise that her favorite OCM exhibit is Tinker Factory, where the next generation of curious minds can build, create and discover just like she did.

Creativity and craftsmanship are at the heart of everything Mark builds at OCM! He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Theatrical Design and Technology from the University of Central Missouri and previously worked as a carpenter and welder for Skylight Music Theatre in Milwaukee. Today, he leads the Exhibits team in designing, building, maintaining and traveling interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and inspire hands-on learning. For Mark, there’s nothing better than creating fun and engaging experiences for what he calls “the best audience in the world, KIDS!” Seeing those creations come to life through play makes his work even more rewarding.

It’s no surprise that Mark’s favorite childhood toys were LEGO and Lincoln Logs. He’s been building things for years. And when it comes to his favorite OCM exhibit, the Gravitron takes the top spot!

From the classroom to the Museum, Ben has dedicated his career to inspiring young learners through creativity and discovery. A former elementary school teacher specializing in third and sixth grades, he holds a Bachelor of Science in Education with an emphasis in Inclusive Practice and is a certified K–6 teacher in Nebraska. Ben began his OCM journey leading STEAM programming and traveling shows before taking on a leadership role overseeing educational programs, guest experiences and exhibit content. He loves the variety and creativity his role brings, especially finding new ways to support his team and create meaningful learning experiences. Ben believes play gives children the freedom to explore, build confidence and discover the world at their own pace.

Growing up, Ben and his sisters spent countless summers turning their basement into a pretend restaurant, complete with play food and groceries. His favorite OCM exhibit is the Science Center, especially the Gravitron. As a child, he even tried convincing his dad to build a giant ball machine in his bedroom. Now he gets to enjoy one at work!