Atlas Science Center in Appleton announces closure

APPLETON, Wis. (WBAY) – Atlas Science Center announces its permanent closure due to rising operating costs. After careful consideration, the Board of Directors has made the difficult decision to sell the property, formerly a paper mill on the Fox River.

Originally known as the Paper Discovery Center, Atlas Science Center has been serving the Fox River Valley community since 2005.

Atlas Science Center says it has partnered with the Building for Kids Children’s Museum and other community organizations.

These partnerships aim to preserve and transfer the Center’s assets so they can be redeployed in our community, facilitating the continued pursuit of science education and community enrichment.

Carol Couillard, Executive Director of Atlas Science Center, shared her gratitude: “For many years, Atlas Science Center has been a beacon of knowledge and inspiration in our community. We are extremely grateful to all the volunteers, supporters and champions who have been on this journey with us.”

Lance Alft, Chairman of Atlas Science Center, said: “Several years ago, we embarked on a journey to rebrand, revitalize our board of directors and redefine our strategic vision. Despite the overwhelmingly positive response from our community and stakeholders, these efforts were not enough to secure the financial foundation needed to move forward. We are proud of the impact we have made and hope that the spirit of scholarship and learning we have fostered will continue to inspire others in new ways.”

More details about existing projects and the future of the Atlas Science Center mission will be shared in the coming months as plans develop.