Children's Discovery Museum in San Jose, California

When the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose recently replaced its iconic rooftop inflatable duck, young visitors immediately took notice.

 

Curious about the change, they inquired about the fate of the beloved mascot.

 

The museum's marketing team crafted a whimsical story: Discovery Duck had retired to a pondside community in Denver to be closer to her grandchildren.

 

This narrative mirrors the journey of Marilee Jennings, the museum's executive director, who is stepping down after 39 years of dedicated service.

 

Jennings, who began as the museum's head fundraiser three years before its grand opening in 1990, is relocating to Colorado to be near her own grandchildren, aged 3½ and 3 months.

 

Reflecting on her tenure, Jennings remarked, "Our stories are fully aligned."

 

Under her leadership, the museum has undergone significant transformations.

 

Notable expansions include the introduction of Bill's Backyard: Bridge to Nature in 2017 and the Exploration Portal in 2024.

 

Additionally, Jennings fostered a partnership with Zoom, resulting in the Children's Discovery Museum Zoom Zone at the San Jose Mineta International Airport.

 

Among these achievements, Jennings holds a special fondness for Bill's Backyard.

 

"I think the happiest an exhibit has made me was opening Bill’s Backyard," she shared.

 

"It was the exact right thing to do at the time we did it, helping parents feel comfortable that their children can maneuver the natural world."

 

Jennings also cherishes the annual Three Kings celebration in January, initiated three decades ago to engage the Latino community.

 

"It’s just a joyful day where people of Latino descent can take great pride in this celebration, and others can learn more about it," she noted.

 

This event has inspired other cultural festivals, such as the Lunar New Year and Nowruz celebrations.

 

Longtime board member Dan Amend praised Jennings for her unwavering dedication, especially during challenging times for the city's cultural institutions.

 

He highlighted her efforts in advocating for the museum's mission to city officials.

 

In honor of Jennings' contributions and the museum's 35th anniversary, the Marilee Jennings Future 35 Fund has been established to support the museum's future endeavors.

 

As Jennings prepares to pass the torch, she offers this advice to her successor: "The community comes first.

 

Let that be your North Star."

 

She emphasized the importance of focusing on children's curiosity and creativity, stating, "It’s about responding to what the child needs in order to grow and become successful."

 

Looking ahead, the museum continues to offer engaging programs.

 

Upcoming events include the Lunar New Year celebration on February 7, 2026, featuring live performances and hands-on activities, and the Nowruz festival on March 21, 2026, celebrating the Persian New Year.

 

For more information on these events and others, visit the museum's official website.

 

As the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose embarks on a new chapter, the legacy of Marilee Jennings' leadership and vision will undoubtedly continue to inspire and guide its future.