staff & employment

Anne Snow

Anne Snow and her family moved to La Crosse in December of 1994 after living in New Orleans for several years (she is from Austin, MN). They loved the friendly people of the La Crosse, but missed the children’s museum they had frequented in New Orleans. With the support of hundreds of generous individuals and organizations who gave their time, talent and treasure, the Gertrude Salzer Gordon Children’s Museum of La Crosse opened on February 28, 1999. The Museum continues to thrive and will celebrate 25 years in 2024. Anne's involvement in this community extends beyond the Museum. She has long been an active Rotarian, and she has also served on several other boards and committees and has lent her efforts and knowledge to many other groups over the years.

Andrea Higgins

Andrea hails from a suburb of Milwaukee, but has called the beautiful La Crosse area home since 2006. The majority of Andrea’s grown-up life has consisted of working in the college/university arena including time at UW-Parkside, Western Illinois University, University of Miami-Coral Gables, and UW-La Crosse. The best word to describe her excitement for things at the Children's Museum of La Crosse is 'supercalifragilisticexpialidocious'! There is so much wonder in watching kids play, and we can truly be brought back to a simpler time when we adults join in on the fun! Andrea and her family can be found at their small business, enjoying time outside, and making fun memories on this adventure called life.

Lissa Carlson

Lissa has dedicated most of her adult life to serving families in our community, first as editor/publisher of Coulee Parenting Connection for more than 20 years. Now, she is a teacher on school days and moonlights in marketing for the Children's Museum. She has been a longtime supporter of the Museum and an admirer of its leadership, and even briefly served on the Museum board. She's thrilled to be part of the fun!

Kim Low

Kim is born and raised in La Crosse, a proud alumni of Cathedral Elementary and Aquinas High Schools. After some time in Milwaukee pursuing education and working in retail, Kim moved back to La Crosse in 1995 to marry her best friend, Jay Low, and raise 2 kids and 2 step-children together. She keeps busy with multiple jobs, including her own business, and loves many pastimes, from traveling to sewing. Her favorite Museum exhibit? The whisper dishes on the second floor!

Dennis Coughlin

Ellen Palmer

Born and raised in Rochester, MN, Ellen has called La Crosse home since 2021. A child life specialist by trade, Ellen has a strong background in play and child development. She started working at the Children’s Museum as a playologist. Her favorite part of the museum is seeing children and families spend time together in the community. Ellen is excited to move into a leadership role at the museum and grow programming to create opportunities for learning and fun. Outside of the museum, Ellen loves reading, crafting and spending time with friends and family.