About
Our Story & Team
A small, scrappy non-profit building a place where every kid in Columbia can get curious.
Our Story
Columbia Children’s Museum is a newly established 501(c)(3) nonprofit working to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences for children and families in Columbia and the surrounding communities. While we develop plans for a permanent home, we are bringing the museum into the community through pop-up exhibits, public events, and local partnerships. We believe curious kids become capable adults. The Columbia Children's Museum exists to give families a place to play, experiment, and learn together — regardless of income, background, or ability level. Our hands-on exhibits invite children to explore, experiment, create, and learn through play.
Our mission
Our mission is to create an inclusive space where children of all abilities can learn through play, movement, creativity, and exploration. By bringing together art, science, literacy, and physical activity, we aim to support healthy development, confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.
Our Board & Leadership
Billie Jean Martin
President & Creative Director
Billie Jean brings decades of dedicated experience nurturing and inspiring children, serving as a preschool teacher, daycare professional, and behavioral health specialist, while her work as a children’s author, photographer, and artist infuses creativity and compassion into every child’s experience.
Christine Thorwegen
Vice President
Christine Thorwegen brings extensive experience in graphic design, art direction, and marketing, along with the perspective of a mother of three, infusing the team with energy, creativity, and passion.
Mariah Poe
Secretary
Mariah Poe brings a wealth of hands-on experience in nurturing and guiding children, hospitality and service excellence, and administrative leadership, offering a blend of care, organization, and dedication to the team.
Susie Killian
Board Member at Large
Susie Killian is a published author on grief counseling, the founder and former director of a daycare, and a naturally gifted artist whose creativity shines through in everything she pursues. Her work reflects both deep compassion and a lifelong dedication to supporting children and families. Above all, Susie is a proud and devoted mother.
Miss Julielle
Fundraising Director
Miss Julielle brings more than 15 years of business leadership experience, including restaurant ownership, operational strategy, team development, and resource management. A mother who has received education from Oxford and Harvard, she brings a practical, community-minded perspective to her role as Fundraising Director.
Benjamin Nielsen
Founder & Executive Director
Benjamin Nielsen is a children’s author and personal trainer with a focus on biohacking and human potential, bringing curiosity and creativity to hands-on, sensory learning experiences for all children.
Tyler Braden
Cofounder & Executive Operations Director
Tyler Braden is a co-founder and Executive Operations Director of Columbia Children’s Museum, supporting the organization’s operations, technology, and exhibit development. His background in STEM, project leadership, music, and design brings a practical and creative perspective to the museum’s work.