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North Star Discovery Center
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    • About Us
      • The Vision
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      • Lego Lending Library
    • EVENTS
    • GIVING
North Star Discovery Center
  • Home
  • About Us
    • The Vision
    • The Board
    • Lego Lending Library
  • EVENTS
  • GIVING

OUR FOUNDERS

Madison Collins

Madison Collins

Madison Collins

Madison, founder & Executive Director of NorthStar, is passionate about transforming STEM learning opportunities in Watertown. As a new mom and lifelong learner, she aims to inspire curiosity and discovery through community engagement and educational programs alongside dedicated board members.

Dylan Collins

Madison Collins

Madison Collins

Dylan, the other half of the Collins duo and co-founder of NorthStar, utilizes his military and business expertise to drive community engagement initiatives. As a new father, he is committed to making a meaningful impact through NorthStar Discovery Center.

A Message from Our Executive Director

  My daughter is already teaching me how much there is to discover. She reaches for everything, studies every new sound, and lights up at the smallest surprise. Watching her, I see how early curiosity begins, and how much it matters to give it room to grow. That’s exactly why we founded NorthStar. We want to provide a place for the next generation and their families to learn and explore through play. Whether you give, volunteer, or simply come say hello, you’re helping light the way for the next generation of curious minds, including my daughter’s. Thank you for being part of this journey.


With gratitude,

Madison Collins
Executive Director, NorthStar Discovery Center

North Star Discovery Center Board Members

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Ben Cruz

Brittany Hefflin

Brittany Hefflin

Ben, a dedicated community supporter and experienced leader, brings military and business expertise to our board, helping to enhance community engagement as we grow our educational programs for children and families at NorthStar Discovery Center. We are excited to have him on our team.

Woman smiling in graduation gown holding diploma and flowers outdoors.

Brittany Hefflin

Brittany Hefflin

Brittany Hefflin

Brittany, a local Nurse Practitioner and valued board member, champions hands-on STEM learning and youth development at the NorthStar Discovery Center, enriching our community engagement and educational outreach. She is an incredible asset to our board.

Juliana Carvalheira-Guerin

Juliana Carvalheira-Guerin

Juliana Carvalheira-Guerin

Juliana brings 10 years of experience as an elementary teacher, teaching math, reading and language from her native, Brazil. A fellow mom, and an active board member, she offers bicultural and bilingual perspective on early education. Her practical classroom insight helps ensure our programs support learners across a range of ages and stages.

Nicole Madden

Juliana Carvalheira-Guerin

Juliana Carvalheira-Guerin

Nicole is an active member of the board members at NorthStar Discovery Center, where she plays a crucial role in promoting community engagement and fostering connections within the local area. Her experience in conservation, wildlife and time at the DEC brings incredible knowledge and expertise to our board.

INTERESTED IN BECOMING A BOARD MEMBER?

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Not sure you're ready to be on the board?

If you've ever wanted to take your non-profit work to the next level, but weren't sure you were ready to be a board member, our Auxiliary Board may be right for you!

What is an Auxiliary Board?

 

Our Auxiliary Board is a place where you can work alongside our board members and learn the inner workings of our non-profit. Serving on the Auxiliary Board is exceptionally rewarding and comes with real benefits for those looking to grow your network, skills, and impact. ​


  • Network with the Board of Directors and active business + civic leaders at events
  • Enhance planning and oversight abilities by participating in professional volunteer committees, including: Special Events, and Finance & Audit.
  • Pathway for future leadership on the Board of Directors and/or other decision-making committees


To apply, simply complete the form above and specify your interest in the Auxiliary Board!

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