Advancement Special Events

The Museum of Science offers a robust schedule of special events each year to celebrate achievement in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), and to recognize our generous benefactors.

Our community of donors and corporate partners comes together to present awards to visiting notables, distinguished researchers, and the stars behind the scene. In addition to frequent exhibit previews and Museum dinner opportunities for members of our giving societies (The Explorers, The Innovators, The Discoverers, the Washburn Society, and more), the Museum annually presents the following special events:

• Stars of STEM Celebration — Annual signature gala honoring the Stars of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
• Washburn Award — Presented to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution toward public understanding and appreciation of science and the vital role it plays in our lives
• Walker Prize — Recognizing meritorious published investigation and discovery in any scientific field
• Annual Giving Societies — Opportunities for members of our Annual Fund giving societies to experience new exhibits and programs before they open to the public
• Chairman's Circle — Biennial dinner for the Museum’s most generous benefactors: individuals, families, corporations, foundations, and government entities whose cumulative gifts and pledges total seven figures or greater
• Women in Science and Engineering — Biannual luncheon forum enables an audience of interested women to hear about the research and experiences of distinguished female scientists and engineers
• Colby Society — Honoring our philanthropic leaders, donors whose lifetime giving to the Museum of Science is in excess of $100,000
• Washburn Society — Annual luncheon event for those who have included the Museum in their wills or estate plans, or who have otherwise conducted life income arrangements with the institution
• The Innovators — Four annual events for the next generation of Museum leaders, philanthropists, and volunteers