Executive Director of Binghamton’s Discovery Center to Retire

The Discovery Center of the Southern Tier has been part of our community since many of us were small and now that we have little ones of our own, they too are enjoying the ability to play and learn in a fun and safe environment.

Behind many of the programs that the Discovery Center offers has been the incomparable Pokey Crocker. Pokey has been the Executive Director of the Discovery Center since 1989, when the museum underwent a redesign after being moved from the former Columbus School building in downtown Binghamton to Ross Park.

Pokey was the driving force behind the establishment of New York State licensed afterschool and preschool programs. She also oversaw the $1.3 million expansion project in 2002 which added to the Discovery Center an additional classroom, performance and exhibit space.

After serving the youngest members of our community for nearly 27 years, Pokey Crocker has decided to hang up her hat. She is retiring and in a press release made the following statement,

What a wonderful experience and challenge this opportunity has presented to me.  I loved it the day I walked in the door and that affection has remained in my heart for the twenty six years I have spent here!  What an incredible ride…the Rolls Royce of occupations. And so, I must follow my lead to spend time with my beloved family, become Grandma Moses II, write that silly book and travel further in the world than Port Crane!  I thank the community for all you have meant to me.  Great love I have in my heart for The Discovery Center.  This thirty two year success story could never have happened without your support.

A party is being planned to celebrate Pokey and her contribution to our community at the Vestal Hills Country Club on Friday, May 20th. More information on the party will be available at The Discovery Center's website.

[Broome County Arts Council]