Our Mission & Impact

The Flagstaff Festival of Science is dedicated to inspiring and connecting the people of Northern Arizona—particularly youth—with the wonders of science and the joy of discovery. Established in 1990, the Festival is the longest-running free science festival in the United States. Learn more to see what makes our science festival the “10 best days of the year!”

At its core, the Festival seeks to build a more scientifically literate society by creating accessible, inclusive opportunities for the public to experience and engage with world-class science. Through its programming, the organization fosters a strong sense of community among residents, scientists, educators, and science-related businesses, reinforcing Flagstaff’s reputation as a hub for STEM education, research, and innovation. The Festival is also deeply committed to cultivating the next generation of science professionals by sparking curiosity and nurturing sustained interest in STEM fields among young people. By broadening access to science education and experiences, the organization aims to transform lives through increased awareness, confidence, and enthusiasm for scientific discovery.

Mission and Vision

Cultural Equity Statement

Together, we succeed. The Flagstaff Festival of Science is committed to creating an environment of belonging. We value people of every race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, ability, age, or veteran status. The Flagstaff Festival of Science invites members of all communities to join us in our mission to inspire youth with the wonders of science.

We are dedicated to providing a diverse array of role models in STEAM fields and delivering programs and events that spark the imagination for people of all cultures and interests. We promote respect for cultural identity, and through the beauty of science, aim to foster unity for many generations to come. We strive to transcend tolerance and cultivate authentic inclusion for all. We welcome YOU to the Best 10 Days of the Year!

2025 Impact Report

Our Mission

The Flagstaff Festival of Science serves to connect and inspire people of northern Arizona, particularly youth, with the wonders of science and the joy of scientific discovery.

Our Vision

Build a more scientifically literate society by providing venues for communicating about and sharing world-class science discoveries.
Nurture a sense of community among the public, scientists, science organizations, and science-related businesses in Flagstaff.
Cultivate the next generation of science professionals.
Change lives through science awareness.

Meet the Team

Latest From The Festival

Elizabeth Vogler

Festival Director

Elizabeth serves as the Festival Director, a position she is passionate about, focusing on collaborative partnerships in the Flagstaff community as well as supporting science learning opportunities for all learners. She has held leadership positions in arts and sciences nonprofit organizations for the last decade in Flagstaff including as the Assistant Director at the Arboretum, the Deputy Director of the Flagstaff Arts Council, and the Office and Operations Manager of the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra. Elizabeth is dedicated to the community and additionally has served on several Boards in the non-profit sector including the Northern Arizona Book Festival, Girls on the Run of Northern Arizona, the Arboretum of Flagstaff, and the Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival. Elizabeth holds a Master’s Degree in Applied Cultural Anthropology from Northern Arizona University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from Ithaca College.

I am enthusiastic about science and lifelong learning and am grateful to have the opportunity to grow our impact in Flagstaff and beyond!

Elizabeth enjoys staying active in beautiful Flagstaff, where she competes in regional triathlons, is a fitness instructor and loves hiking and playing with her 4 dogs.

Gina Byars

Program Manager

Gina Marie Byars is CHamoru (a Pacific Islander from Guam), Pennsylvania Dutch, and a third-generation Arizonan. She was born and raised in Flagstaff, Arizona, where she attended public schools before earning a degree in Elementary Education from Northern Arizona University.

Gina is passionate about lifelong learning across a wide range of subjects, with a particular interest in astronomy and quantum physics. A self-described “chaos moderator,” she thrives in the dynamic world of program and festival management, drawing on her extensive experience in the field. She is co-owner of Rugged Nature Productions and oversees the Route 66 Centennial Celebration, Flagstaff Beer Festival, Cornucopia, and works with the Hullabaloo Festival.

Gina enjoys the multidimensional challenge of event production and is excited to bring her skills to the Flagstaff Festival of Science team. Outside of her work, she loves writing, Taiko drumming, learning ukulele and mandolin, singing karaoke, traveling, and enjoying the beauty that is Northern Arizona.

Oly Noneza

Creative Specialist

Oly earned his degree from Northern Arizona University in 2021. Since then, he has worked as a Motion Graphics Designer for local news stations nationwide, with a focus on digital post-production, including video editing, motion graphics, and VFX. In his free time, Oly enjoys hiking throughout Flagstaff and Sedona, playing video games, and exploring music.

GOVERNANCE

Board Of Directors

Adam Marsh

President

Petrified Forest National Park

Audrey Dima

Treasurer

Retired, Intel Corporation

Joelle LeMer

Secretary

Northern Arizona University, Center for STEM Teaching and Learning

Jessica Abbott

Director

Village Camp Resort

Sarah Dankof

Director

Lowell Observatory

Kathy Farretta

Director

Arizona Historical Society

Jennifer Glennon

Director

Coconino Community College

Michelle Hammer

Director

Coconino County

Brandon Lurie

Director

W. L. Gore & Associates

Matt Lydy

Director

Northern Arizona University

Katherine S. O’Donnell

Director

OP Creative Communications

Kelly Saganey

Director

Northern Arizona Healthcare

Jim St. Leger

Director

Retired, Intel Corporation

Lisa Vandevor

Director

American Indian Higher Education Consortium

Sheryl Wells

Director

W.F. Killip Elementary School

Get in Touch

For more information about the Flagstaff Festival of Science, our programs, partnerships, or ways to get involved, reach out to our team. of curiosity — these are the stories behind the Festival.