Meet the Team

Paul Gangarosa: Founder & Board President

I hold an Associate’s degree in Applied Technology with a focus on Computer Programming, a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal justice, and a Master’s degree in Public Health. I was a Computer Specialist for the Center for Disease Control, a Database Administrator for the Medical University of South Carolina, an Adjunct Professor for the Colledge of Charleston, and currently operate several small businesses here in the Lowcountry. For years, I have been passionate about someday bringing a world-class planetarium to Charleston—one that will inspire curiosity, foster scientific discovery, and enhance our community’s access to space and science education. Our current planetarium project here at the Citadel Mall is our first major step in seeing that dream become a reality.  As a longtime Charleston resident of over 20 years, a dedicated entrepreneur, and a committed philanthropist, I deeply appreciate the city’s rich history. Now, I am eager to contribute to its future by expanding our collective knowledge of the cosmos. I invite you to join me in making this vision a reality for our community.

Chris Fragile: Board Member, College of Charleston – Department of Physics & Astronomy

I have been teaching physics and astronomy at the College of Charleston for 20 years. I have an active research program in computational astrophysics. Currently, my primary interest is in studying black hole accretion and the feedback of black holes on their environments through jets. I am also active in public outreach, through Astronomy Open House nights at the College, founding a local chapter of Astronomy on Tap, and giving talks and planetarium presentations at local schools.

Scott Harris: Board Member, Planetary Geologist

Beth Donehue

Beth Shealy Donehue: Board Member, Treasurer, Fundraiser, Event Planner, Public Relations

My passion has always been supporting the Lowcountry youth and setting them up for success. I believe in lifting up the future generations who will take the reins one day in our wonderful community. For more than twenty years I have been working with local non-profits with my involvement ranging from grant writing to fundraising events. As a Charleston native and graduate of the College of Charleston, I find it surprising that with everything Charleston has to offer we do not have a planetarium. I am thrilled to be a part of such an exciting mission to educate and entertain explorers of all ages with the Charleston Planetarium Dome Theatre.

Thomas Martinez: Planetarium Director, Astronomer

I have always been interested in the stars.  I went to Stony Brook University for astronomy and physics, where I had the chance to research and observe parts of our sky. Afterwards, I assisted in the startup of an online business and started and managed my own business. I previously worked operating the planetarium at the Cradle of Aviation Museum and joined the team to lift the Charleston Planetarium off the ground and into the stars. My goal is to see our dreams into reality and bring the beauty and curiosity of space to the Low Country.

Theresa Kelly: Web Developer & Graphic Designer

As a self-taught web developer and graphic designer, I have been providing a wide range of computer and web services for over 25 years, with a special focus on supporting small nonprofits. It has been an honor to contribute to the launch of the Charleston Planetarium project and to play a role in its ongoing operations and future growth. I manage the planetarium website and work with social media and PR. I am excited to support this initiative and help bring the wonders of space to our community. If you have any questions regarding our website, please feel free to reach out to me at webmaster@charlestonplanetarium.org.