Mary Oliveira

When I was a little girl, I couldn’t wait to start any school project that let me tap into my creative side. Each assignment felt like its own universe, brimming with endless possibilities of colors, techniques, and ideas. These projects not only fed my curiosity but challenged me to think critically and boldly explore my craziest ideas. Over time, they became more than self-expression; they were catalysts for growth, building my resilience, creativity, and understanding of the world around me.

Today, I have the honor and privilege of leading Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts, where I witness the transformative power of creativity, arts, and science every day. Whitaker Center is more than a place for cultural enrichment and education. It’s a vital cornerstone of the greater Harrisburg region, a hub that fuels innovation, inspires young minds, and drives economic growth. It’s a space where possibilities come alive and ripple out to impact our entire community.

As I reflect on my role here, I’m struck by how many reasons there are to support institutions like Whitaker Center. These reasons guide our work and serve as a reminder of why investing in arts, science, and education is so critical. Here are some of the most compelling:

We drive economic growth. The nonprofit arts and culture industry generates billions in economic activity annually across the United States, and Whitaker Center contributes significantly to our local economy. Each event we host, from science exhibits to live performances, creates a ripple effect. Visitors dine in local restaurants, shop at nearby businesses, and often return to explore more of what Harrisburg has to offer. In 2024 alone, we welcomed more than 45 thousand unique visitors, many of whom traveled from outside the area, boosting local spending and sustaining jobs in hospitality, retail, and other industries. Our operations also directly support hundreds of jobs, from our dedicated staff to the local contractors and vendors we rely on to bring our programs to life.

We bring people together. Whitaker Center is a gathering place for families, artists, and organizations, both local and regional. Whether it’s a school group exploring STEM activities, a community enjoying a film screening, or an audience captivated by a live performance, our mission is to connect people through shared experiences. These moments strengthen the fabric of our community and foster a sense of belonging that’s vital for any region to thrive.

We inspire the next generation. Every year, thousands of children come through our doors, hungry for hands-on learning that sparks their curiosity and prepares them for careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). Whitaker Center is a hub for innovation and education, offering programs that foster equity and inclusivity. We empower children of all backgrounds to imagine, create, and lead, ensuring the next generation of thinkers, doers, and creators has a strong foundation to build on.

We elevate our community’s potential. A vibrant cultural and educational scene is a magnet for businesses, talent, and families. Employers are drawn to cities with thriving arts and science institutions because they signal innovation and opportunity. Families settle in places where their children can access enriching experiences. By supporting institutions like Whitaker Center, we’re not just enhancing the quality of life, we’re creating a competitive advantage for the greater Harrisburg region.

We are deeply grateful for our supporters. None of this would be possible without the generosity of our donors and the community that embraces our mission. As a nonprofit, we rely on these vital contributions to fulfill our vision of cultural and educational growth. Every donation, no matter the size, fuels meaningful change and helps us continue making a lasting difference.

As we look to the future, the potential for growth is immense. Imagine Harrisburg as a state or national model, a community where arts and science drive innovation, inclusivity, and transformation. I believe this vision is within reach, but it requires more than imagination. It demands courage, commitment, and most importantly – investment.

With February upon us and local leaders preparing to allocate resources to meet our community’s needs, I urge them to recognize that supporting cultural and educational institutions is far from a luxury. It is a vital investment in ensuring Harrisburg remains a place where culture and innovation thrive, enriching lives and driving economic prosperity for generations to come.

Let’s make this vision a reality. Together, we can ensure that Whitaker Center, and institutions like it, continue to be a beacon of inspiration, growth, and possibility for our community. The future of Harrisburg depends on it.

Mary Oliveira, President and CEO of Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts

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