"I Believe in Magic": Introducing the New Executive Director of the Magic City Discovery Center

A New Vision for the Magic City Discovery Center

Do you believe in magic? For Matthew Farnsworth, the newly appointed executive director of the Magic City Discovery Center, the answer is a resounding yes. Farnsworth has spent his life nurturing a deep curiosity and love for learning, and now he’s bringing that same energy to the Discovery Center, where he hopes to inspire others through creativity and exploration.

Farnsworth holds a Master of Science from Boise State University and a Bachelor of Arts from California State University, Long Beach. However, his academic achievements have not dulled his childlike wonder. In fact, they’ve only fueled his passion for discovery. He believes that the magic of learning is something that should be shared with everyone, regardless of age or background.

“I am a firm believer in magic,” Farnsworth said. “It’s seeing these kids come in, seeing how they learn new things, they discover new things, they grow and develop. It’s learning and growing and discovering how things work, and that doesn’t diminish the magic. That increases the magic.”

One of Farnsworth’s main goals as executive director is to build on the creative spark that makes the Discovery Center such a special place. But he’s not just focusing on children. He wants the center to be a space where people of all ages can let their imaginations run wild.

“We have so many great ideas floating around that we’re talking about,” said Bobby Van Dyke, the Discovery Guide Supervisor. “Me and Matt are working on some stuff that we’re hoping to get some foothold on here coming up, so I can’t say anything on that. But I think we have some really good ideas coming and a strong passion to make those ideas happen, so I think there’s some fun things coming up.”

Farnsworth is also committed to making sure that the staff at the Discovery Center feel the same sense of magic that he brings to the table. His positive attitude and vision have already begun to influence the team, creating an environment where creativity and collaboration thrive.

The Magic City Discovery Center is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursdays and weekends, as well as 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays. Whether you're a young child, a senior with a youthful spirit, or someone simply looking for a fun and engaging experience, there's always something magical happening at the Discovery Center.

In addition to its regular hours, the center will host a special event next Tuesday: a fundraising gala that Farnsworth describes as a “night of magic and wonder” designed for adults. The event will start at 6 p.m. and promises to be a unique opportunity to enjoy the magic of the Discovery Center in a new way.

As Farnsworth takes on this new role, he brings with him a fresh perspective and a deep belief in the power of imagination. His vision for the Discovery Center is one of inclusivity, creativity, and endless possibilities. With his leadership, the Magic City Discovery Center is poised to become an even more vibrant and inspiring destination for the entire community.

Whether you're a lifelong learner, a curious child, or someone looking for a moment of wonder, the Magic City Discovery Center is a place where magic lives. And with Farnsworth at the helm, that magic is only going to grow.