EcoTarium Celebrates the Success of GSK Science in the Summer Program

WORCESTER, MA — The EcoTarium Museum of Science and Nature announces the successful conclusion of this summer’s GSK Science in the SummerTM program. This year, the program reached 830 youth in grades 2-5 across Massachusetts, from Holyoke to Fitchburg to Worcester, providing engaging and educational experiences in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields.

Supported by GSK and led by The Franklin Institute, GSK Science in the SummerTM allowed students to explore space science through hands-on activities, stepping into the roles of Astrobiologists, Planetary Geologists, Robotics Engineers, Rocket Engineers, and Spacesuit Designers. The program, which is entirely free of charge, aimed to inspire and educate the next generation of scientists and engineers.

Director of Education and Exhibits at the EcoTarium Katie Chappell shared, “We're thrilled to partner with a variety of youth-serving organizations, from summer camps to Boys & Girls Clubs, to bring the GSK Science in the Summer: Be a Space Scientist program to so many young minds across the state. Our goal is to inspire these youths and help them envision themselves in a wide range of STEM careers that they may not have considered before. This program is an incredible opportunity to spark curiosity and excitement about science, and we can't wait to see the impact it will have on the future generation of scientists.”

This year’s program was made possible by the commitment from GSK and The Franklin Institute, which has funded the program for two years, this summer and next. Their support has enabled the EcoTarium to expand its reach and provide quality STEM education to under-resourced or under utilized communities.

As the EcoTarium looks ahead to the next year, they are seeking new community partners to continue delivering impactful STEM programming. Organizations interested in hosting EcoTarium educators and providing 5 hours of STEM programming to youth in grades 2-5 over a week during summer 2025 are encouraged to get in touch.

For more information on partnering with the EcoTarium for future STEM programming, please contact Katherine Bean, Museum Educator at kbean@ecotarium.org.