The Rey Cultural Center
Our Mission
The Rey Cultural Center honors the Reys’ spirit of curiosity and discovery by increasing understanding of and participation in the arts, sciences, nature and literacy through programs for youth, adults and families.
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Curiosity, Creativity, and Community Is What We’re All About.
The Rey Cultural Center honors the Reys’ spirit of curiosity and discovery by increasing understanding of and participation in the arts, sciences, nature and literacy through programs for youth, adults and families. Honoring the Legacy of Margret & H.A. Rey Margret and H.A. Rey, creators of Curious George, were more than authors—they were artists, adventurers, historians, and naturalists. As summer residents of Waterville Valley, they embraced curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning. Today, their spirit lives on at The Rey Cultural Center, a nonprofit dedicated to fostering discovery through art, science, nature, and literacy programs for all ages. Inspired by the Reys’ love for astronomy, environmental stewardship, and hands-on learning, the center brings together young and old in a shared pursuit of exploration and knowledge. The lives of Margret and H.A. Rey were filled with continued learning and community service. The Reys were active in writing and illustration; astronomy; natural history; photography; environmental action (including calls for renewable energy); concern for animals; the simple joys of gardening, walking and bicycle-riding; and, of course, children's experiential learning. These life pursuits of the Reys form the basis Rey Center programs. This mixture of art and science, the physical and intellectual, young and old, and ever-present curiosity, is the foundation for a multi-generational center for learning and exploration. Visit The Curious George Cottage Physical Address: 13 Noon Peak Road, Waterville Valley, NH 03215 The Curious George Cottage is located adjacent to the Elementary School and Recreation Department. Here, you can:
Driving Directions:From the South: Take Exit 28 off Route 93 in NH. Turn right onto Route 49 East and travel 12 miles to Waterville Valley. From the North: Take Exit 28 off Route 93, turn left onto Route 49 East, and travel 12 miles. Once in Waterville Valley, stay on Route 49, turn right onto Noon Peak Road (second right after the flashing speed limit sign). The Cottage is on your left, immediately after the Waterville Valley Elementary School and Recreation Department. Meet The Board & Team The Rey Cultural Center is led by a dedicated team of educators, community leaders, and volunteers who are passionate about fostering curiosity and discovery through the arts, sciences, and nature. Leadership Team Leah Elliot – Executive Director Leah brings a background in environmental education, teaching middle and high school students in alternative school settings across California, Alaska, and Vermont. With a graduate degree in business, she successfully manages The Rey Center’s nonprofit operations while advancing its mission to inspire curiosity and discovery in art, science, and nature. 📧 leah@thereycenter.org Curious Cottage Team Allison Savage – Lead Teacher Allison believes in fostering hands-on, play-based learning environments where children can explore, create, and discover at their own pace. She follows the Montessori philosophy, encouraging curiosity and self-directed learning. 📧 asavage@thereycenter.org Board of Directors Our Board of Directors brings together expertise in education, finance, town management, and community development to guide The Rey Center’s mission. Mark Decoteau – Board Chair Mark is the Town Manager of Waterville Valley and has been involved with The Rey Center since its formation in 2005. A West Point graduate with a Master’s in Public Administration from John Jay College, Mark works closely with facility maintenance and program development. Alan Zelbow – Treasurer A retired CPA partner in a national firm, Alan has been a property owner in Waterville Valley for over 40 years and a longtime supporter of The Rey Center. Mary Beth Straub- Treasurer Mary Beth is the Assistant Vice President for Harvard University’s Central Administration, overseeing budgets and resource management. She holds degrees from Pace University and Harvard and enjoys skiing, hiking, cycling, and cooking in her free time. Nadja Stratton Parent of two school aged children in Waterville Valley, Nadja has been an advocate and supporter of our early childhood education programs. Professionally she works as the Director of Operations in a family commercial real estate investment and management company. She brings her marketing, community involvement and energy to support development on our Board. Craig Larsen Craig is the owner of Waterville Valley Golf Course and The Club House, bringing his expertise in hospitality and recreation to the board. Steve Larkin Steve grew up spending summers in Waterville Valley and later moved here full-time with his family after working in Boston’s hospitality industry. He applies his passion for welcoming and growing a thriving community to The Rey Center’s outreach and development efforts. |