Meet Joanne Jones-Rizzi, Vice President of Science, Equity, and Education

What does bold science mean to you?

Thinking about the two words ‘Bold’ and ‘Science’ is exciting! By combining them, each concept gains strength, clarity, and focus. They support risk taking that shifts who, what, and how we engage with science. Together, they signify a commitment to inclusivity, and they amplify the potentials made possible when multiple perspectives inform the questions that science asks, as well as the processes and ethics that guide the ensuing research and education. 

Bold science is data-informed. It is shaped by important questions that emerge in expanded and culturally inclusive contexts. Science is based on the collective knowledge that generations of people have contributed to with their effort and passion. It reflects insights and misinterpretations, mistakes and successes, illusive answers and transformative understandings.

What do you do every day to create a world where everyone has the power to use science to make lives better?

When you combine science, education and equity, it’s a SUPER POWER! The museum staff working in the Science, Equity and Education Division that I lead are deeply engaged and passionate. They are committed to communicating the most current and accurate science research and the questions motivating this research, with innovative science education pedagogy and practices. 

The work of the division supports museum audiences through school programs, both on and off-site, camps, classes, youth programming, and professional development—all that share our emphasis on equity systems change and collaboration to provide access to museum resources. We center equity and systems change within our pedagogy, research, curricula, collections, and professional development offerings. 

What gives you hope in the fight against climate change?

I am inspired by the universal movements and actions led by young people. They have mobilized globally to draw attention to climate science and the negative impact humans have had on the planet, while communicating what we need to do collectively to make the necessary societal changes and hold governments accountable. We can all participate in the fight against climate change.

What are the biggest challenges in the fight against climate change?

Equity is at the heart of reversing climate change. Our collective challenge is to fundamentally change our behaviors, our habits, and our lifestyles to reduce carbon emissions, end the age of fossil fuels, and sustain a liveable planet for all.

What makes you proud to work at the Science Museum of Minnesota?

I value working with dedicated colleagues who share a passion for the unique serendipitous learning that takes place within a museum context. 

I value knowing that visitors have profound experiences within our museum and through the programs and resources that we deliver locally, regionally, and nationally. 

Centering equity in everything we do ensures that staff, visitors, professional colleagues, and trustees can see their life experiences reflected within our museum. 

I also take pride in the organizational values of equity, learning, and collaboration. These values were identified and developed by staff, and they guide us in our work and shape our museum culture.