Courtesy/NMDCA
NMDCA News:
ALAMOGORDO — The New Mexico Museum of Space History welcomes three new staff members: Olga Valanos, Brigette Smith, and Levi Heisinger. Valanos is the Public Relations and Marketing Director, Smith is the Front Desk Customer Service representative, and Heisinger joins as an Education Coordinator and Planetarium Projectionist.
Valanos has more than 15 years of experience in marketing and public relations. An MBA graduate of Loyola College, she most recently served as the Communications Lead at the foundation for one of San Antonio’s largest school districts. After spending 10 years in Texas, she is returning to New Mexico, where she previously lived for more than 12 years. New Mexico is also where Valanos post-produced the award-winning documentary Generation Red Nation, which provided a snapshot of life on Plains Indian reservations versus city life for Native Americans.
“This is a gem of a museum in a building that looks like a gemstone, and I am excited to promote it along with the history of mankind’s mission to space,” Valanos said.
Smith, the museum’s newest Customer Service Representative, brings a wealth of experience from various fields, including hotel front desk operations, retail management, and telecom sales. She said that she is excited to engage with the diverse visitors.
“Every day, it’s different,” Smith said.
Smith has a keen interest in astronomy and space exploration. A fun fact about her is that she enjoys building terrariums and nurturing live plants in her aquarium. When purchasing a ticket from her, expect a warm smile and a generous dose of optimism.
Heisinger is a familiar face at the museum. In the summer of 2022, he interned there and became a full-time employee from 2023 to 2024. His dedication to the museum shows in his roles as Education Coordinator and Planetarium Projectionist, where he also helped create promotional videos.
He has an associate’s degree in arts from NMSU and is working toward a bachelor’s in history, all while holding a full-time job at the museum.
“I feel like I am back home with my work family, teaching space science and having fun in the process,” Heisinger said.
In his free time, Heisinger is the lead vocalist and guitarist in an alternative rock band, and he can often be found at night gazing at the stars or practicing astrophotography.
About the New Mexico Museum of Space History:
The New Mexico Museum of Space History in Alamogordo is a division of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. A Smithsonian Affiliate, the museum showcases the significant role New Mexico has played in the development of the U.S. Space Program and features the International Space Hall of Fame, and New Horizons Dome Theater.
For more information, contact the museum at 575.437.2840 or visit www.nmspacemuseum.org.