Connecticut Science Center

This summer, we have the pleasure of showcasing Kat Owens' thought-provoking art installation, Entangled and Ingested. In this compelling project, she transforms discarded plastic materials into life-sized portraits of marine animals affected by plastic pollution. Each depicted creature has a documented history of either becoming entangled in or ingesting plastic debris. Earlier this summer, we had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Kat Owens to delve into her project and explore what she hopes the public will take away from her artwork. For more details about Kat Owens and her work, visit https://katowens.com/. The installation remains on display on the first floor of the Science Center, so make sure to stop by and experience it.

And that wraps up another summer of the Teen Innovation Program here at the Science Center! Yesterday was our annual Teen Innovation Showcase where the groups were able to present their projects to visitors, staff, family, friends and supporters. It was an incredible day!

Powering up Preschool Science for Emergent Multilingual Learners. In a recent article published jointly by Megan Ramer of the Connecticut Science Center and Jessica Mercer Young, Cindy Hoisington, and Janna F. Cook from edc.org explores how we can enhance science learning for this group of young learners. The article, titled explores the profound effects of informal STEM education on young learners. This research underscores the importance of fostering curiosity and a love for science from an early age, aligning perfectly with our mission to inspire lifelong learning and innovation. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/e34Y_H_Q

The Connecticut Science Center is embarking on a transformative $20 million plan to bring even more innovation and inspiration to our community. From cutting-edge exhibits to expanded educational programs, there's a lot to look forward to. Dive into the details and see what's in store for the future of science exploration in Connecticut! Thank you, Sean Krofssik from the Hartford Courant Media Group, for a great feature. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/eAkRd8ev

We want to give a big thank you to our partners at Zygo for their generous support. Their donation supports engaging programming related to optics and lenses and provides students in Alliance District Schools access to visit the Connecticut Science Center on a field trip. Thank you to Zygo for your partnership with the Connecticut Science Center and your support of STEM Education in our state! In Photo (from left to right): Matt Fleury, President & CEO, Connecticut Science Center Peter de Groot – Chief Scientist, Zygo Jennifer Hellberg – Vice President / Business Unit Manager, Zygo Laura Rochford – Vice President Human Resources, Zygo

We are celebrating 15 incredible years at the Connecticut Science Center! Since our grand opening, we've welcomed over 4.3 million visitors, igniting curiosity and passion for STEM in countless young minds. As we look ahead, we're thrilled to share our new 10-year Strategic Vision. New exhibitions and a completely re-imagined app, mobile platform, and website mark the beginning of a multi-year rollout of exciting attractions and features. More information on the ten-year strategic plan can be found here: https://lnkd.in/eU39a332 Thank you to all our supporters and partners for making this journey possible. Let's inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators!

The Liberty Bank Surprise Squad is at it again! This time, they’re bringing the gift of science to a very deserving family. Watch the heartwarming moment unfold as they deliver a special surprise that will inspire young minds and foster a love for learning. Thank you, Irene and WFSB TV, for this fantastic Surprise Squad moment. Check out the full video here: https://lnkd.in/e8Dyp-bn

🏃♀️ Petit Family Foundation 5K was a huge success today! The Science Center team had a great time! Petit Family Foundation

We were honored to have Governor Lamont, Mayor Arulampalam, and members from the Connecticut State Department of Education visit the Connecticut Science Center today to witness the incredible work our Teen Ambassadors are doing in the Teen Innovation Program. This six-week summer program engages 30 high school students from the Greater Hartford area, fostering their interests in STEM and exploring future STEM careers. Participants work in a collaborative, workplace-style environment, guided by our dedicated staff. They identify science questions on topics that they will study and explain to Science Center visitors through live demonstrations and activities they create. Topics range from ecological and health issues like microplastics to engineering challenges. Supported by generous donors, the Teen Innovation Program not only enhances students' knowledge in science, engineering, and technology but also develops essential workplace skills, teamwork, and communication. This enriching experience empowers students from all backgrounds to envision themselves in STEM careers.

This is your FINAL WEEK to secure Early Bird Tickets & Tables for the Connecticut Science Center Gala: Close Encounters of the STEM Kind. This annual gala promises out-of-this-world cocktails, a seated dinner (with mashed potatoes), music, live and silent auctions, and more in support of inspiring programs to meet the current and future STEM workforce needs. The Connecticut Convention Center will be transformed into a not-to-miss celebration of science fiction through the ages. Tickets of the First Kind on sale now with discounted pricing available until July 15 at https://lnkd.in/gtD4GhP.