09/26/2026
Dr. Marcia Moore has been a pillar of the Gateway Science Museum community since before it even came to fruition. Learn more about her passion for science and how it all began for her.
“I had first heard about the possibility of a science museum in Chico when I was on the Advisory Committee for the Biology Department at Chico State. I had made some suggestions and, to show my support and, in part, to honor my husband who had recently died and who also knew of the importance of science education and had a love of the Northern California natural environment, I made a financial contribution in his honor. The Cornyn Valley Gallery was named for him and the plaque on the wall contains a poem he wrote about his love for the outdoors.
I’ve loved science since I did a 7th grade project growing bacteria on agar plates. I loved studying chemistry in high school and in my pre-med courses at University. In those studies I realized there was a place for women in science and especially in medicine although at that time women were underrepresented in advanced fields in both areas.
Gateway is often able to introduce young people to the joy of ‘doing science’ through our interactive exhibits and experiences. We provide a space where they can share those interests with their families, friends and schoolmates. We are also an informal training ground for college students interested in many facets of science including science education.
Gateway and other similar museums can show that when people are engaging their curiosity, asking questions, and looking for answers, they actually are ‘doing science.’
I have so many favorite Gateway memories it is hard to name just one. In general, I love the
questions that very young people have which show that they are really interested outside of school in the natural world. And our curiosity guides who are trained to respond with more questions and suggestions make me very proud that our museum is playing a role in furthering interest in science in our region and beyond.”
