Museum Staff
We particularly pride ourselves on being a small organization with large impact on the community. We truly love what we do, and we hope to sea you soon!
Interim Executive Director
Nomi Dayan
ndayan@cshwhalingmuseum.org; Ext 17
My work is my life's passion: teaching others about the wonders of the world. I started teaching in museums when I was 14, and I received my BA from Hunter College and MA from Bank Street College in Museum Education. I try to design programs that spark curiosity and creativity in individuals through interdisciplinary, constructivist learning.
Previous experiences include teaching about nature, science, and environmental studies in the education departments of the Prospect Park Zoo and New York Aquarium of the Wildlife Conservation Society, and running programs about science, botany, and culture at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. I joined the Whaling Museum in 2008 in an effort to revitalize the department's vision and have tremendously enjoyed being part of the growth in a petite but vibrant gem on Long Island.
Aside from my fascination with the ocean, everything in nature amazes me. I enjoy exploring Long Island parks with my husband and baby. Other interests are herpetology (especially snakes), the secret lives of bugs, dance, local history, van Gogh, Native American cultures, Carlebach music, vegetable gardening, and creative writing. I am committed to living compassionately and eco-consciously.
ndayan@cshwhalingmuseum.org; Ext 17
My work is my life's passion: teaching others about the wonders of the world. I started teaching in museums when I was 14, and I received my BA from Hunter College and MA from Bank Street College in Museum Education. I try to design programs that spark curiosity and creativity in individuals through interdisciplinary, constructivist learning.
Previous experiences include teaching about nature, science, and environmental studies in the education departments of the Prospect Park Zoo and New York Aquarium of the Wildlife Conservation Society, and running programs about science, botany, and culture at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. I joined the Whaling Museum in 2008 in an effort to revitalize the department's vision and have tremendously enjoyed being part of the growth in a petite but vibrant gem on Long Island.
Aside from my fascination with the ocean, everything in nature amazes me. I enjoy exploring Long Island parks with my husband and baby. Other interests are herpetology (especially snakes), the secret lives of bugs, dance, local history, van Gogh, Native American cultures, Carlebach music, vegetable gardening, and creative writing. I am committed to living compassionately and eco-consciously.
Business Manager
Katie Kelly
kkelly@cshwhalingmuseum.org; Ext 15
Katie recently joined our staff. Please check back soon for her fantastic bio.
kkelly@cshwhalingmuseum.org; Ext 15
Katie recently joined our staff. Please check back soon for her fantastic bio.
Education Department
Leah Master, Education Coordinator
Lmaster@cshwhalingmuseum.org; Ext. 16
Growing up on Long Island, I enjoyed learning about local history and the Long Island Sound. My interest in cultural history led me to work in museums and historical societies starting in high school, teaching, researching, cataloging, and writing about the many amazing objects in these institutions. I quickly realized that what I liked most about museums is their ability to share the stories of their collections in exciting ways. As a result, I strive to make museums as memorable and enjoyable for visitors as they are for me through the interactive engagement of informal learning experiences.
I received a B.A. from Barnard College of Columbia University, an M.A. in decorative arts, design, and material culture from the Bard Graduate Center and an M.S.Ed. in Museum Education and Childhood Education at the Bank Street College of Education. Some of my previous work experiences include cataloguing artifacts at the New-York Historical Society, The Roslyn Landmarks Society, and The Brooklyn Museum of Art, teaching at Rutgers, NYIT Old Westbury, and the Brooklyn Friends School, and caring for children as a nanny. I came to the Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum in 2012 because of my desire to encourage children’s curiosity through hands-on, informal learning, particularly in the museum environment. After finishing my degree at Bank Street, I wanted to find a job where I could make learning fun, where history and science could come alive through the objects, games and stories. I found that job at the Whaling Museum.
When I am not working at the museum, I design interactive museum exhibitions at an architecture and design firm in Manhattan. I also enjoy spending time with my husband and two daughters, singing, crocheting, photography, traveling, American History, cooking, and baseball.
Lmaster@cshwhalingmuseum.org; Ext. 16
Growing up on Long Island, I enjoyed learning about local history and the Long Island Sound. My interest in cultural history led me to work in museums and historical societies starting in high school, teaching, researching, cataloging, and writing about the many amazing objects in these institutions. I quickly realized that what I liked most about museums is their ability to share the stories of their collections in exciting ways. As a result, I strive to make museums as memorable and enjoyable for visitors as they are for me through the interactive engagement of informal learning experiences.
I received a B.A. from Barnard College of Columbia University, an M.A. in decorative arts, design, and material culture from the Bard Graduate Center and an M.S.Ed. in Museum Education and Childhood Education at the Bank Street College of Education. Some of my previous work experiences include cataloguing artifacts at the New-York Historical Society, The Roslyn Landmarks Society, and The Brooklyn Museum of Art, teaching at Rutgers, NYIT Old Westbury, and the Brooklyn Friends School, and caring for children as a nanny. I came to the Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum in 2012 because of my desire to encourage children’s curiosity through hands-on, informal learning, particularly in the museum environment. After finishing my degree at Bank Street, I wanted to find a job where I could make learning fun, where history and science could come alive through the objects, games and stories. I found that job at the Whaling Museum.
When I am not working at the museum, I design interactive museum exhibitions at an architecture and design firm in Manhattan. I also enjoy spending time with my husband and two daughters, singing, crocheting, photography, traveling, American History, cooking, and baseball.
Nicole Kuffo, Museum Educator
nkuffo@cshwhalingmuseum.org; Ext 11
It has always been a passion of mine to work with children. During my freshman year at SUNY College at Old Westbury I was required to complete community service hours and I requested to be placed with an organization that works with children. I became an intern at the Whaling Museum in order to fulfill my community service requirements. Near the end of my school semester, I was asked to join the education team.
Working at the museum continues to be such a wonderful experience because it allows me to expand on my knowledge of marine life, history and conservation while educating the students and visitors who explore the museum. My experiences teaching at museum has also allowed me to grow as an educator and sharpen my teaching skills.
I am currently attending St. Joseph’s College in Patchogue to earn my degree in childhood and special education. I also have concentration in psychology and sociology.
In my spare time I enjoy kickboxing, traveling, and spending time with my family.
nkuffo@cshwhalingmuseum.org; Ext 11
It has always been a passion of mine to work with children. During my freshman year at SUNY College at Old Westbury I was required to complete community service hours and I requested to be placed with an organization that works with children. I became an intern at the Whaling Museum in order to fulfill my community service requirements. Near the end of my school semester, I was asked to join the education team.
Working at the museum continues to be such a wonderful experience because it allows me to expand on my knowledge of marine life, history and conservation while educating the students and visitors who explore the museum. My experiences teaching at museum has also allowed me to grow as an educator and sharpen my teaching skills.
I am currently attending St. Joseph’s College in Patchogue to earn my degree in childhood and special education. I also have concentration in psychology and sociology.
In my spare time I enjoy kickboxing, traveling, and spending time with my family.
Gina Van Bell, Museum Educator
gvanbell@cshwhalingmuseum.org; Ext 11
My fourth grade trip to the Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum is one that I’ve never forgotten. I kept my scrimshaw craft from that day for a very long time. Now I not only get to share that experience on a weekly basis with children from all over Long Island while teaching about whaler’s lives and experiences, but I also help to make the experience more relevant and exciting as time changes the museum and the world around it.
My background varies from studying fashion merchandising in London to product development at various fashion businesses to substituting in the Long Island schools. I completed my BA in Fashion Merchandise Management at SUNY Fashion Institute of Technology. After working in the field for a few years, I had a change of heart and decided I would use my creativity to teach children. I graduated from CUNY Hunter College with an MA in Childhood Education.
I started working at the museum in the summer of 2009 after finishing up a year of substituting in Long Island schools. Making teaching points at the whaling museum using a true hands-on approach, educational games, and related crafts, inspired me as an educator. I continue to be motivated and enthused every day by the group of educators, visitors, and friends of the museum.
I enjoy spending time with my husband and son. We spend time outdoors at the local parks and beaches whether its summer or winter. When I’m home, I like to spend time reading, doing crafts, and especially organizing.
Barbara Barry, Museum Educator
bbarry@cshwhalingmuseum.org; Extension 11
Barbara recently joined our staff. Please check back soon for her fantastic bio.
gvanbell@cshwhalingmuseum.org; Ext 11
My fourth grade trip to the Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum is one that I’ve never forgotten. I kept my scrimshaw craft from that day for a very long time. Now I not only get to share that experience on a weekly basis with children from all over Long Island while teaching about whaler’s lives and experiences, but I also help to make the experience more relevant and exciting as time changes the museum and the world around it.
My background varies from studying fashion merchandising in London to product development at various fashion businesses to substituting in the Long Island schools. I completed my BA in Fashion Merchandise Management at SUNY Fashion Institute of Technology. After working in the field for a few years, I had a change of heart and decided I would use my creativity to teach children. I graduated from CUNY Hunter College with an MA in Childhood Education.
I started working at the museum in the summer of 2009 after finishing up a year of substituting in Long Island schools. Making teaching points at the whaling museum using a true hands-on approach, educational games, and related crafts, inspired me as an educator. I continue to be motivated and enthused every day by the group of educators, visitors, and friends of the museum.
I enjoy spending time with my husband and son. We spend time outdoors at the local parks and beaches whether its summer or winter. When I’m home, I like to spend time reading, doing crafts, and especially organizing.
Barbara Barry, Museum Educator
bbarry@cshwhalingmuseum.org; Extension 11
Barbara recently joined our staff. Please check back soon for her fantastic bio.
Accounting
Cornelius Francis (Neil) Brogan, Accountant
brogie@optonline.net
In the summer of 1974, I was asked to fill in for a friend who was working weekends at the Museum. I continued for several years whenever the friend could not make work. In 1977, I was added officially to the staff. After graduating CW Post School Of Professional Accountancy in 1981, I became the accountant for the Museum and have served in that capacity ever since.
I worked at Zeidman, Lackowitz & Company Certified Public Accountants, Syosset NY for 25 years. I am currently the Chief Financial Officer for The Inn At New Hyde Park.
I belong to the New Hyde Park Fire Department where I have served as Captain Of Protection Engine Co. #2, an Emergency Medical Technician and Captain of the Termites Racing Team. I served as President of The Nassau County Volunteer Firemens Parade and Drill Team Captain's Association. I am a member of the Huntington Community Band and the Lindenhurst Brass Marching Band. I sing in the St. Annes Garden City Choir and am a member of the steering committee for the annual Newsday / Hofstra High School Marching Band Festival. I am a member of the National Eagle Scout Association and serve as Treasurer for the New Hyde Park Village Museum Association.
I enjoy spending time at my summer home located in Glen Spey NY, golfing and collecting antique vehicles.
brogie@optonline.net
In the summer of 1974, I was asked to fill in for a friend who was working weekends at the Museum. I continued for several years whenever the friend could not make work. In 1977, I was added officially to the staff. After graduating CW Post School Of Professional Accountancy in 1981, I became the accountant for the Museum and have served in that capacity ever since.
I worked at Zeidman, Lackowitz & Company Certified Public Accountants, Syosset NY for 25 years. I am currently the Chief Financial Officer for The Inn At New Hyde Park.
I belong to the New Hyde Park Fire Department where I have served as Captain Of Protection Engine Co. #2, an Emergency Medical Technician and Captain of the Termites Racing Team. I served as President of The Nassau County Volunteer Firemens Parade and Drill Team Captain's Association. I am a member of the Huntington Community Band and the Lindenhurst Brass Marching Band. I sing in the St. Annes Garden City Choir and am a member of the steering committee for the annual Newsday / Hofstra High School Marching Band Festival. I am a member of the National Eagle Scout Association and serve as Treasurer for the New Hyde Park Village Museum Association.
I enjoy spending time at my summer home located in Glen Spey NY, golfing and collecting antique vehicles.
Gift Shop Manager & Interpreter
Joan Lowenthal
giftshop@cshwhalingmuseum.org
Sailing to Mystic Seaport in Mystic, CT each summer for over 18 years has instilled in me an interest in maritime history. What a joy it is to work at the Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum! I love greeting people and sharing my knowledge of the exhibit and showing the movie about the Charles W. Morgan. Many times I learn from our visitors.
Other experiences include working as a Montessori Teacher for over 20 years, substitute teaching, and volunteering in several organizations. I was Commander of Neptune Sail and Power Squadron, a unit of the United States Power Squadron® for one year and on the Bridge and Executive Board for many more.
In my free time I enjoy, kayaking, sailing, scuba diving, going to the gym, playing the piano, and cooking.
giftshop@cshwhalingmuseum.org
Sailing to Mystic Seaport in Mystic, CT each summer for over 18 years has instilled in me an interest in maritime history. What a joy it is to work at the Cold Spring Harbor Whaling Museum! I love greeting people and sharing my knowledge of the exhibit and showing the movie about the Charles W. Morgan. Many times I learn from our visitors.
Other experiences include working as a Montessori Teacher for over 20 years, substitute teaching, and volunteering in several organizations. I was Commander of Neptune Sail and Power Squadron, a unit of the United States Power Squadron® for one year and on the Bridge and Executive Board for many more.
In my free time I enjoy, kayaking, sailing, scuba diving, going to the gym, playing the piano, and cooking.
Development Consultant
Nan Gerson
nrgerson@aol.com
Please check back soon for Nan's fantastic bio.
nrgerson@aol.com
Please check back soon for Nan's fantastic bio.
Weekend Interpreter Staff
Sana Ashraf
Kathleen Bom Joan Lowenthal Peter Nazaroff |
Program Assistants
Danjeh Haeri
Sarah Sachs Samantha Savello Brian Testa Talia Yakobi |
Educator Gina Van Bell leading a Memorial Day Walking Tour
