The American Alliance of Museums Bestows Prestigious Award to Local Researcher
Dr. Cockerham is the founding and current director of the Research and Learning Center (RLC) at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History (FWMSH), which is funded by the M.R. and Evelyn Hudson Foundation. The RLC is at the intersection of research and education through interactive collaborations with university scientists, allowing guests to learn and actively experience the production of new knowledge. University researchers collaborate with Dr. Cockerham to clarify their questions, methods, and findings, then conduct their studies within the museum where they recruit guests as participants and interact with them in a relaxed setting. Guests learn from the scientists, and the research adds a new layer to the guests’ learning experience. Van A. Romans, FWMSH President, says of Dr. Cockerham, “The RLC has quietly grown into a recognized program that has impacted so many researchers and guests. It takes a passionate, talented person to make that happen and I’m so proud that Debbie is that person!”
Dr. Cockerham exemplified collaboration through authentic relationships, meeting extensively with each researcher. She served as mentor as they navigated the research process and often struggled with communicating effectively to a lay audience. She stayed by their side through the study and, in some cases, co-authors their research. One researcher, and founding university partner, described the RLC as a “town square for the community with Debbie as the heart and center of the square.” Debbie connects researchers with one another, creating collaborative research groups and hosting Poster Forums. Dr. Cockerham’s genuine interest in researchers as people brings many guests back to the RLC.
Under Dr. Cockerham’s leadership the RLC grew to encompass 11 universities and over 70 researchers, many of whom have returned for multiple studies. Since inception, 17,600 guests have participated with an additional 17,970 educational interactions about the process. Dr. Sarah Hill, a Professor in the Department of Psychology at TCU, said of Dr. Cockerham, “I have had the pleasure of working with Debbie to collect data on children’s eating behavior at the museum. She is a tireless advocate for making science fun and accessible to everyone who enters the museum.”
She is also a devoted activist for children with autism spectrum disorder, having spent 24 years as a special education educator. Debbie built a council of local experts, created an ongoing series of workshops for families and developed and implemented Sensory Aware Saturdays, events funded by local foundations that allow families with children on the spectrum to benefit from their private visit to the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. The evening features sensory modifications and opportunities for families to connect with important support services. Over 1,300 guests have participated in these programs in the last four years.
Normally, Dr. Cockerham would have received this award in front of colleagues from across the country at the awards luncheon held at the AAM conference in San Francisco in May, which understandably had to be cancelled.
If you are interested in interviewing Dr. Cockerham, please contact Denise Hamilton, dbollinger@fwmsh.org.
Image Caption
Dr. Debbie Cockerham, 2020 recipient of the ‘John Cotton Dana Award for Leadership’ by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM). Credit, image courtesy of the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.
The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, a distinguished institution established in 1941, is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and proudly holds Affiliate status with the Smithsonian Institute. Anchored by a diverse and enriching collection spanning science and history, the museum is committed to lifelong learning. Engaging visitors through vibrant programs and exhibits, it interprets the rich tapestry of Texas and the Southwest. The museum’s commitment to education is reflected in its innovative programs, designed to inspire and educate learners of all ages. From interactive workshops to immersive exhibits, the museum provides a dynamic environment for curiosity and intellectual growth. For more information about educational programs, exhibits, and events, visit www.fwmuseum.org.
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