leadership, staff, and board of directors
As a nonprofit agency, the Board of Directors governs The Children’s Museum of Greater Fall River from a legal and fiduciary perspective. Our Executive Director, Director of Operations, and Office Manager lead the museum and are responsible for all aspects of operations and programming.
The Floor Manager and Museum Associates ensure a safe and rewarding experience for children and their families on a daily basis.
Ellen Lough, Executive Director
Ellen Lough holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Skidmore College and a Master of Arts in Teaching English from Simmons University. Following the completion of her Master’s, she began her teaching career instructing 6th, 7th, and 8th grade English and math, as well as teaching computer science to kindergarten through eighth grade. While teaching kindergarten through eighth grade computer, she played a pivotal role in developing a comprehensive, school-wide computer science program.
After teaching in Providence’s inner-city schools, Ellen transitioned into administration, serving for two decades as the Director of Admission and Financial Aid and the Director of Little School Enrollment at Lincoln School in Providence, RI. In these roles, she was instrumental in designing and implementing financial aid and scholarship programs, ensuring that students from all socioeconomic backgrounds had access to an independent school education. Ellen also led the development of the Little School (an infant and toddler center), as well as Lincoln’s enrichment and summer camp programs. These innovative programs addressed the evolving childcare needs of 21st century families.
In 2014, Ellen became the Executive Director of New Bedford Star Kids Scholarship Program, where she dedicated ten years to supporting at-risk, economically disadvantaged children affected by parental incarceration and substance abuse. She raised funds for scholarships and co-curricular activities, guiding the students throughout their educational journey from kindergarten through twelfth grade.
Currently, as the Executive Director of the Children’s Museum of Greater Fall River, Ellen provides visionary leadership to the organization. Her role at the Museum encompasses strategic planning, financial management, grant development, fundraising, marketing, exhibit curation, and community relations. She works closely with volunteers, the Board of Directors, and the community to advance the Museum’s mission and enhance its impact.
Outside of work Ellen enjoys running, traveling, the beach, and spending time with her husband, three daughters, and two grandchildren.
Katie Pascoal, Director of Daily Operations
Katie joined The Children's Museum of Greater Fall River as a volunteer in 2013, and within that year became part of the staff. She became Floor Manager in 2018 and Director of Daily Operations in 2024. Katie’s passion is cooking, and she obtained her associate’s degree in Culinary Arts at Bristol Community College, where she graduated in 2017. Katie has worked many jobs in the hospitality industry as well as in kitchens enjoying every second of that work, however she still has a love for learning and working with children. Her favorite aspect of working at CMGFR is connecting with families and collaborating at events within our community. Her hobbies include reading, nature walks, visiting the beach and spending quality time with my family.
Sofia Daestrela, Museum Associate
Sofia joined CMGFR as a part time worker in 2022, eventually becoming a full-time staff member. Her favorite part of working CMGFR is getting to see members grow, develop, and learn new things. Her hobbies include playing with her two dogs, spending time with family, and painting.
Melissa Cardelli, President
Melissa Cardelli is the President of the Board of Directors and a dedicated board member since 2010. She has her C.A.G.S in Early Childhood Education, MS in Parent Education and Support ,and BA in Sociology. Melissa is the Department Chair of early Childhood Education at Bristol Community College. Melissa and her family have all volunteered in a variety of ways at the museum and look forward to continuing to support the museum. Melissa is committed to fostering excellence in early childhood education and advancing the museum's mission, cultivating a profound love for learning through purposeful play.
Cherly Feeney, Vice President
Cheryl is the Vice President on the Board of Directors with a passion for helping all children reach their potential. She is a proud and retired teacher of the Fall River Community . She received a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Bridgewater State University and completed her graduate work at Bridgewater State University and Lesley University. Before retiring, she taught 30 years as a first and second grade teacher, literacy coordinator and a reading interventionist.
Ashley DaCunha, Treasurer
Ashley DaCunha is a commercial construction estimator who joined the museum as a board member in November 2023. She holds a Master of professional Accountancy from Rhode Island College. She was born and raised in Fall river where she currently resides with her family. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, snuggling with her dog, and spending time with family.
Marion L. Shaker , Secretary
Marion L. Shaker has been a board member since 2020, and loves being part of a great group advancing the betterment of children in our area. Marion has a BA in English and Education and an MS in Education Psychology and Gifted Education. She is married and has two children and seven grandchildren.
Barbara Terrio
Barbara has been on the Board of Directors since 2018. A lifelong Fall River resident, Barbara is married, has one son and two grandchildren. Barbara started her career as a social worker for ten years before going into the field of Education . She started with teaching grades three to five, advanced her education, and was appointed as Principal of the Leontine Lincoln Elementary School from which she retired.
Odete Amarelo
Odete is a proud member of the Board of Directors. She is an educator with a tremendous passion for education. Odete taught at various institutions such as Bristol Community College, where she taught Portuguese.
Jay Chatterton
Jay is a retired professional educator. He holds a Bachelor of science degree in Technical Education (Formerly Industrial Arts) with a minor in Technical Theatre. He holds a Master's Degree in Occupational Education Administration with 30 credits beyond. In 1986 he was the founder of the Old Colony and Fall River RailRoad Museumand has served as its President since then. Although he is a proud member on the board of the Children's Museum of Greater Fall River he served 14 years on the Board of The Friends of Heritage Park and served one year as President. He also served on the Board of Fall River Fire Museum for 12 years and was the Vice President. Jay has been active in the community helping for many years with Fall River Celebrates America, Thomas Gunita Memorial road Race , and is an active member of the Fall River Elks Lodge 118.
Donna Stewart