Erin Langan Joins River Discovery Center

The River Discovery Center in Paducah, Ky., has named Erin Langan education and programs manager. She joined the museum August 3.

Langan will oversee the center’s educational programming, school field trips, outreach initiatives, summer camps, public programs and community partnerships. She will also help develop programs exploring the history, science, culture and industries connected to the nation’s inland waterways.

Langan has more than seven years of experience in museum education, public programming, historic interpretation, conservation and community engagement. She holds a bachelor’s degree in anthropology and previously served as a park interpreter and naturalist at Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site.

At Wickliffe Mounds, Langan developed and led programs focused on archaeology, Mississippian culture, native wildlife, environmental conservation and historic preservation. She also worked with community groups and organizations, including the U.S. Forest Service.

Langan created the B.A.R.K. Ranger Program at Wickliffe Mounds, making it the first Kentucky State Park to implement the initiative, which promotes responsible recreation for visitors with dogs.

“Erin understands how to turn history, science and conservation into experiences that are meaningful, accessible and memorable,” said Lindsey Launius, the center’s executive director. “She is an exceptional fit for our mission.”

Langan joined the center following a summer camp season in which participation increased by more than 340 percent from the previous year. She and the center’s staff are developing new school field-trip programs and a wizarding-themed fall break camp.

Located on Paducah’s historic riverfront, the River Discovery Center uses exhibits, educational programs and special events to highlight the history and continuing significance of America’s inland waterways.