Outgoing Museum Director Looks Back

Jun 26, 08:47 AM

Current Headlines: By Janet Caggiano, Richmond Times-Dispatch, Va.

Jun. 26--Walter R.T. Witschey may be stepping down from his position as director of the Science Museum of Virginia, but he won't be retiring from the field of science.

Witschey, 66, is joining the faculty at Longwood University in Farmville this fall as professor of anthropology and science education.

"None of my recent male ancestors retired -- so it is not really in my vocabulary," he said. "I do not view this change as retirement. I view it as moving on to the next great thing."

At Longwood, he will continue his research into settlement patterns of the ancient Maya. "The dual freedoms to teach and to do research are a huge blessing -- my idea of a heaven-sent new career," he said.

This week closes out Witschey's 15-year career at the Science Museum. Before he heads out the door for good, we have some parting questions for the Charleston, W.Va., native.

What was your first job?

"Each of my first jobs was memorable for its lessons. In junior high school, an afternoon paper route taught me to ask people to pay promptly, in cash. In high school, working as a mail courier for the compressor and metal shops of Columbia Gas taught me that people come in all ethnicities and educational backgrounds, and no one holds a monopoly on insight or intelligence."

Why did you choose a science-related career?

"Science is fun. It is fun to learn how the world works. All this fun began early with little science projects and model railroad layouts. School science fairs were fun. My friends and I built Tesla coils, shock tubes, ultra-centrifuges and cloud chambers out of handy scraps. Nowhere has it been more fun than at the Science Museum -- bringing fun to hundreds every day."

How do you look back on your career at the Science Museum?

"With great satisfaction. It was enjoyable and challenging. It put me in contact with wonderful people. It used my skills in finance, administration, visioning, people management and persuasion. I learned a great deal."

What are you most proud of?

"The personal growth and development of the hugely talented individuals on my staff."

What will you miss the most?

"The energy, creativity and loyalty of the Science Museum staff and the roar of the busloads of schoolchildren at 10 a.m."

What role do science museums play in society today?

"Science museums provide inspiration. At their best, they provide an 'Aha!' moment that is memorable for a lifetime. If the classroom provides the time for learning, science centers launch the motivation that makes it happen."

Everyone knows you for your bow ties. Why wear them?

"Shirts are easier to clean than ties. The bow is distinctive and people remember it and associate it with the Science Museum, even if they don't remember my name."

Science Museum of Virginia Where: 2500 W. Broad St. Details: www.smv.org or (804) 864-1400

Contact Janet Caggiano at (804) 649-6157 or jcaggiano@timesdispatch.com.

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