Minnesota students take on the role of space scientists during GSK Science in the Summer™ with The Bakken Museum in collaboration with Philadelphia’s Franklin Institute
MINNEAPOLIS, MN. – April 15, 2024 – GSK Science in the Summer™, a free summer STEM (science, technology, engineering & math) program designed to inspire the future generation of scientists and engineers, returns this summer with a new theme: Be a Space Scientist!
Supported by GSK, led by The Franklin Institute and administered through The Bakken Museum, this 100% free STEM enrichment program provides exciting opportunities for students to embody science careers, think scientifically, and have fun. Through a series of hands-on activities, students will dive deep into the fascinating world of space exploration and be introduced to different career paths as they step into the roles of Astrobiologist, Planetary Geologist, Robotics Engineer, Rocket Engineer, and Spacesuit Designer.
“Today more than ever, it’s critical to provide students with opportunities to discover the wonders of science, explore various career paths, and recognize the important role scientists play in changing our world,” said Erica Henderson, Director, US Charitable Investments at GSK. “Through GSK Science in the Summer™, we’re proud to invest in and inspire the next generation of innovators.”
GSK Science in the Summer™ was created more than 37 years ago in Philadelphia as part of GSK’s commitment to supporting diverse and equitable STEM education. Led by The Franklin Institute, the national network this year will bring together an additional 22 informal science institutions to reach an estimated 23,400 youth in grades 2 – 6 through partnerships with 290 community-based youth-serving organizations nationwide. This summer, nearly 600 children across Minnesota will join thousands more GSK Science in the Summer™ students nationwide as they learn the importance of space science through fun, hands-on, age-appropriate experiments at local community organizations.
“The goal of GSK Science in the Summer™ is to increase interest and confidence among students in doing science and pursuing STEM careers, especially students from backgrounds currently underrepresented in STEM fields,” said Dr. Darryl Williams, Senior Vice President of Science and Education, and Human Resources at The Franklin Institute. “The Franklin Institute recognizes that one of the most effective ways to create a future with a diverse STEM workforce is to offer young students opportunities to envision themselves as astronauts, engineers, or chemists, and year after year, this program excels at doing that."
The Franklin Institute develops the GSK Science in the Summer™ curriculum, which is freely available at scienceinthesummer.fi.edu.
About The Bakken Museum
The Bakken Museum inspires a passion for innovation by exploring the potential of science, technology, and the humanities to make the world a better place. Located on the West shore of Bde Maka Ska, the museum features interactive exhibits for all ages, a world-renowned collection of artifacts, and exceptional STEM education programs. For more information, visit thebakken.org. Find @thebakkenmusem on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
The Franklin Institute
Located in the heart of Philadelphia, The Franklin Institute is a renowned and innovative leader in the field of science and technology learning, as well as a dynamic center of activity. As Pennsylvania’s most visited museum, it is dedicated to creating a passion for learning about science by offering access to hands-on science education. For more information, visit www.fi.edu.GSK
GSK is a science-led global healthcare company. For further information, please visit www.us.gsk.com.
Media Contact: Stefanie Santo, The Franklin Institute 215.448.1152, ssanto@fi.edu. Kate Kanaby, GSK, kate.l.kanaby@gsk.com
Media Contact: Joe Imholte, The Bakken Museum 651.446.3108, imholte@thebakken.org