About Us
EPIC Discovery Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that aims to bring learning to life for youth and families in Central Nebraska, with a focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math)-based activities. EPIC Discovery Center will develop the old armory building on Old Potash Highway within Ryder Park. This location was selected due to its centralized location, ease of accessibility by the community, and the adjacency to Ryder Park which is an activity hub for the Grand Island community.
Our Mission
The mission of EPIC Discovery Center is to engage families to explore creativity and community
through experience-based learning and play.
How It Started
In the summer of 2018, a small group of interested citizens began embarking on the exciting endeavor to bring a children's museum to Grand Island. This group banded together and developed a steering committee consisting of local funders, nonprofit and museum professionals, and community stakeholders. In early 2019, the Steering Committee partnered with Hastings College to complete a feasibility study to garner community interest, support, and input. The feasibility study concluded that a children’s museum for all ages is indeed feasible to create and maintain in the community! In 2020, the Grand Island Children's Museum formed its Board of Directors.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ALISON LARSON
Alison brings a wealth of experience and community dedication to her role. With a financial background and leadership experience, Larson spent nearly 25 years in the banking industry as a Senior Vice President, Marketing Director, and Investments Operation Manager. Throughout her career, she has held leadership positions in numerous non-profit boards. In addition, she served as the Board Secretary for the Grand Island Children’s Museum (now EPIC Discovery Center) from 2021 to 2023 before resigning to pursue the Executive Director position.
Larson continues her involvement by serving on the Grand Island Public School Foundation board. Her deep connection to Grand Island and passion for enhancing the local community makes her a great asset to EPIC. Larson envisions the forthcoming museum as a transformative force, offering innovative STEAM experiences for diverse age groups.
PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
SCOTT MAZOUR
Scott brings over two decades of leadership experience in education and program development, making him a valuable addition to the EPIC team.
He served as principal at Cedar Hollow School and 1-R School, both part of Northwest Public Schools, where he spearheaded initiatives that significantly improved student achievement, developed innovative educational programs, and strengthened school-community partnerships.
Mazour will lead the development and implementation of dynamic, hands-on educational programs that align with the center’s mission. He will oversee program logistics, collaborate with educators and community partners, and enhance engagement opportunities for children and families.
GRAND ISLAND INVESTS IN GRAND ISLAND
Grand Island has seen major economic development and population growth in recent years.
5.4% population growth in the last 10 years
28% of Grand Island's population is under 18