Creative Discovery Museum Celebrates 30th Anniversary with Bob Corker and Community Leaders
August 22, 2025 [Chattanooga, TN] — Creative Discovery Museum (CDM) proudly welcomed former Chattanooga Mayor and U.S. Senator Bob Corker at a special event this week in celebration of the Museum’s 30th Anniversary. Guests included Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly, Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp, community leaders, past board members, and champions of the Museum who have played a role in supporting the mission over the years.
The evening began with a tour of the Museum’s Community Gallery, which chronicles the remarkable growth of CDM since its founding in 1995. The gallery highlights major milestones, from the Museum’s early exhibits to the Ignite Discovery capital campaign renovations which were completed in 2023. Guests had the opportunity to explore and play in these exhibit galleries throughout the event.
Senator Bob Corker makes remarks
During the event, Corker gave brief remarks to guests about the opening of CDM and the broader vision that the 21st Century Waterfront Plan, which he championed during his tenure as Chattanooga mayor, brought to the city.
“The riverfront project meant so much to our community,” Corker said. “The tourism these institutions have created has established Chattanooga as a true live, work, play environment.”
Corker also praised the Museum’s continued impact on children and families.
“The impact the Museum has is astounding. Just considering the number of children served is enough to show the incredible difference they are making.”
Following Corker’s remarks, the Museum’s President and CEO Tim Sears addressed the audience, highlighting the importance of play in building lifelong learners and strengthening community bonds.
Building a Brighter Future
“Because of our belief in play, we have seen generations of children develop critical skills—both cognitive and physical—simply by following their curiosity,” Sears said. “Childhood wonder doesn’t happen in isolation. At CDM, we engage parents and caregivers as co-explorers. That trust, connection, and shared memory ensures that the learning and legacy endure.”
The evening included a reception catered by Vision Hospitality Group, where attendees reflected on the Museum’s history and looked forward to its future as a vital community resource in a growing and evolving downtown.