The Museum of Life and Science in Durham has announced the addition of Courtney Brown and Temis Coral Castellanos to its Board of Directors. Bernice Bond, Board Chair, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Courtney and Temis to the Museum’s Board of Directors. Their passion for learning, community building, and sustainability reflect the very heart of our mission. Each brings a unique perspective that will help us continue to inspire curiosity and foster connections between people, nature, and science.”
Courtney Brown is a Realtor based in Durham with experience in law, sales, and small business ownership. She is a Duke Law graduate and former attorney who has spent over 13 years as an entrepreneur and 19 years involved in leadership roles within the community. Brown specializes in negotiation, mediation, and property analysis.
Brown commented on her new role: “As a resident of Durham for over 20 years, I have seen how the Museum is one of the true jewels of the Triangle, one where generations of children have been educated and families can learn and explore together with childlike wonder. Having seen as both a volunteer and an attendee the impact the Museum has on those who visit, I’m excited to help this community institution continue to create a love of the world, science, nature, and learning in all.”
Brown is active in several professional associations including the North Carolina State Bar. She also supports local causes within Durham.
Temis Coral Castellanos brings more than 15 years’ experience as a climate and sustainability strategist. She leads Sustainability & Climate Strategy Practice at John Beath Environmental LLC where she has helped Fortune 500 companies pursue decarbonization goals.
Castellanos holds degrees from Duke University (Master of Environmental Management) and Universidad de los Andes (Bachelor’s in Chemical and Industrial Engineering). Her career spans work with industries such as consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and energy.
She said about joining: “The Museum of Life and Science has been a special place for our family for many years, nurturing our kids’ curiosity and love of learning. It’s an honor to serve on the Museum Board and contribute to its mission of connecting our community through nature and science.”
Museum CEO Carrie Heinonen noted that their appointments come at a significant time: “We’re thrilled to welcome Courtney and Temis at such an exciting moment for the Museum,” she said. “As we redouble our efforts to be a venue of connection and inspiration for our community, their leadership will help guide us through a time of incredible growth. From new exhibitions and expanded educational programming to our upcoming 80th anniversary celebrations, the Museum evolves as it serves and reflects our broader community.”
Brown and Castellanos will support initiatives related to educational programming expansion, enhancing partnerships with local organizations, as well as advancing efforts that align with the museum’s mission.
The Museum’s website provides more information about its Board members.
Located near downtown Durham on an 84-acre campus,the Museum features interactive exhibits such as Dinosaur Trail; Ellerbe Creek Railway; Hideaway Woods; Into the Mist; Earth Moves; Aerospace—with one of North Carolina’s largest collections from NASA’s Apollo era—and one of East Coast’s largest butterfly conservatories. The AZA-accredited zoo houses rescued black bears, lemurs, endangered red wolves among other animals.
For nearly eight decades since opening over 79 years ago,the museum has focused on providing programs,research,and engagement opportunities for communities across Durham,the Triangle,and North Carolina.
