COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT
FISCAL
YEAR 2025
PARTICIPATING MEMBER SUPPORTED IN PART BY
BEING CURIOUS DURING AN AGE OF IMMEDIATE ANSWERS
Dear Friends,
Orlando Science Center is a playground for your brain. Not just a place to explore science concepts but to learn important skills so we can tackle life’s biggest challenges. Experiences at the Science Center open you up to new ideas. We inspire curiosity.
Curiosity is something to nurture these days. We live in an age when the answers to all questions are at our fingertips. While it’s a marvelous time saver and puts knowledge in the hands of everyone, it’s also very concerning. When you believe everything has been answered, you stop asking questions and then you stop questioning the answers.
It is vital that we stay curious but more importantly, we shouldn’t always accept the immediate answer. That’s the process of science: gathering information and making decisions based on evidence. We
need to remain open to new data that can change the established way of thinking and lead to new discoveries.
At the Science Center, we focus on engaging curiosity and encouraging problem solving. We provide opportunities to build skills and continue lifelong learning for everyone. Staying curious matters, especially now in a world overflowing with information.
Answers alone don’t fuel advancement. It is the act of questioning, imagining the possibilities, and the desire for knowledge that moves society forward. Curiosity is the spark that drives discovery and innovation. That is why Orlando Science Center will always create experiences to ignite your imagination.
Sincerely,
JoAnn Newman, Jim Atchison President & CEO Chair, Board of Trustees (FY 2024-2025)
COMING SOON TO A THEATER NEAR YOU
THE DOME BY DR. PHILLIPS CHARITIES
Orlando Science Center is grateful for the $1 million grant award from Dr. Phillips Charities for our Unlock Science campaign to fund the renovation of the Dr. Phillips CineDome, which will be renamed “The Dome by Dr. Phillips Charities.” These funds will be combined with other campaign dollars to bring cutting edge planetarium shows to OSC along with giant screen movies and original laser light shows. Construction is under way with an unveiling planned for Spring 2026.
This project will include an upgrade to an 8k ultra high-definition full dome digital laser projection system, replacing the original 27-year-old film-based technology; up to 8 digital projectors; an all-new immersive, powerful audio system; as well as the replacement of the theater’s dome screen and installation of all new seating.
“This contribution will help transform the Dr. Phillips CineDome into a world-class, immersive experience that will inspire future generations of learners and innovators,” said Ken Robinson, President and CEO of Dr. Phillips Charities.
“We’re proud to support a project that fosters curiosity, education, and exploration right here in Central Florida.”
Since 1997, the Dr. Phillips CineDome has thrilled almost 4 million viewers with giant screen documentaries. Its 79-foot diameter tilted screen pitched over its 300+ seats makes it one of the
nation’s largest dome theaters. This new system will enable dynamic storytelling in the digital age, allowing the Science Center and its partners to showcase their expertise and engage audiences in innovative ways.
“These enhancements will greatly increase the quality of our movie experiences and return us to our roots as a planetarium with a fully digitized system, ideally suited for expanded educational programming,” said JoAnn Newman, President & CEO of Orlando Science Center.
The stunning, immersive environment of The Dome by Dr. Phillips Charities will be a unique venue for guests to explore and learn about many subjects and embark on journeys around the globe and deep
into space, helping to inspire science learning for all. The reconfigured seating will also allow for guest speakers, live shows, and demonstrations during special events.
Renovations will open the doors to mixed-media performances, such as live performers who present while animated or live-action images are shown on the dome screen overhead. These upgrades will also ultimately enable OSC to “dome-cast” content to theaters around the
world as well as receive content from other venues.
“The CineDome has amazed and engaged generations,” said Newman. “This incredible support from Dr. Phillips Charities will revolutionize our theater, enabling us to further inspire curious minds and instill passion for a world of unlimited possibilities. We are grateful to Dr. Phillips Charities for their trust and faith in us.”
IGNITING A HEALTHIER FUTURE:
A TRANSFORMATIONAL PARTNERSHIP WITH ADVENTHEALTH FOR CHILDREN
At Orlando Science Center, we believe in the transformative power of partnerships. This year, we proudly expanded our long-standing relationship with AdventHealth for Children with a shared vision to empower young minds, inspire future careers, and build a healthier Central Florida.
AdventHealth for Children has become the Presenting Sponsor of our STEM Discovery Center, elevating this central hub of hands-on STEM learning to new heights. Located on Level 2 of the Science Center, the STEM Discovery Center serves as a dynamic launchpad for summer camps, school field trip labs, teacher workshops, and Neighborhood Science curriculum development. In a typical summer, the Center hosts 400 campers per week for ten consecutive weeks. During the school year, it supports thousands more through immersive programming that cultivates skills in coding, robotics, engineering, and more.
This 10-year partnership expands our reach both onsite and far beyond our walls. As part of this new chapter, AdventHealth for Children and AdventHealth University are partnering with OSC to bring STEM learning directly into hospital rooms, early learning centers, and our Central Florida communities. From hands-on science activities for young patients to early STEM experiences at West Lakes Early Learning Center, the partnership is designed to spark curiosity in every child— regardless of where they are on their learning journey.
The partnership also strengthens our Neighborhood Science initiative, which now serves multiple communities weekly through mobile
programming. With a fleet of eight outreach vans and over 380 mobile STEM sessions delivered across more than 30 counties in the past year, we are taking high-impact, hands-on learning into schools, community centers, Boys & Girls Clubs, and YMCAs. With AdventHealth for Children’s support, this outreach is expanding to include even more health science-based content, connecting children to real-world applications and pathways in medical and STEM careers.
AdventHealth University will further engage in programming through guest speakers, student volunteers, and new immersive field trip experiences. Plans are underway to host OSC summer campers on the AdventHealth University campus, launch a Medical Career Science Night, and explore collaborative summer camps that introduce students to the world of health care and healing professions.
This visionary collaboration exemplifies what’s possible when education, health care, and community unite. Together, we are lifting up youth, creating safe spaces for exploration and discovery, and nurturing the next generation of innovators, caregivers, scientists, and engineers.
Whether through a microscope in the lab, a telescope in our observatory, or a stethoscope in a hospital room, the journey of discovery begins here. With the support of AdventHealth for Children, Orlando Science Center is not only inspiring future STEM professionals, we are helping shape a healthier, more hopeful tomorrow.
WON’T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR?
NEIGHBORHOOD
SCIENCE OUTREACH PROGRAM
Part of our work towards our mission to inspire science learning for all entails gaining a deeper understanding of the barriers to STEM opportunities and exploring how we can meaningfully engage with our community to have a greater impact. Thanks to key support from partners like the City of Orlando’s Families, Parks and Recreation Department, we identified areas of our community in greatest need of STEM support and launched Neighborhood Science in 2022. This program gives us the opportunity to work directly with youth in our community, establishing a consistent presence to build relationships and increase students’ confidence and interest in STEM.
Neighborhood Science now operates satellite classrooms and labs in three key neighborhood centers, including the Grand Avenue Neighborhood Center, the Jacqueline Bradley and Clarence Otis Family Branch Boys & Girls Club, and the Rosemont Neighborhood Center. We have a multi-year commitment to each of these locations, allowing us to make a deep impact with long-term, consistent programming at no cost to our partners. Each location now has an interactive STEM lab equipped with state-of-the-art technology such as 3D printers, drones, and laser printers.
By providing innovative STEM education experiences to youth in their own neighborhoods and honing 21st century skills, this program promotes STEM literacy and builds a better understanding of and interest in STEM learning and career pathways. Engaging lessons are also aligned with Florida State Standards to meet both the interests and educational needs of participating youth. Partnerships with the City of Orlando and Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Florida (BGCCF) have been vital to allowing us to provide this kind of access to our community.
During the 2024-25 academic year alone, Neighborhood Science provided over 6,300 student interactions. Students explore topics including robotics, forensics, space, physics, and making/tinkering. Working in a mix of individual and collaborative environments, students hone their teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Additionally, students are given opportunities to connect with powerful mentors and community organizations to help inspire them to pursue careers in STEM. Participating role models from organizations such as Kennedy Space Center, Disney, AdventHealth, and Lockheed Martin help students see themselves in STEM careers by sharing their personal journeys.
MEET NEIL, OUR CATS-TRONAUT
OUR SCIENCE COMPETITIONS GO NATIONAL
In 2022, Orlando Science Center received a grant from NASA to support three years of Neighborhood Science programming at the Grand Avenue Neighborhood Center. The funding allowed our Education Team to provide free STEM workshops to students in Grades 4 and 5, family engagement events, and professional development to Grand Ave staff.
In the first year, we collaborated with engineers from Kennedy Space Center’s Swampworks to develop curriculum and completely outfitted a dedicated space from the City of Orlando, which became the first Neighborhood Science location. Funding supported supplies and materials, including 3D printers, smartboards, a LEGO wall, and many other cool STEM resources.
Throughout the program, students learned 21st-century skills such as teamwork and problem-solving, as well as STEM concepts like coding, circuitry, and the engineering design process. During each year, students were introduced to astronauts and NASA engineers who shared information about their own career paths.
As the Team moved into the final year of the grant, we launched the culminating phase: the Competition for the Advancement of Technology in Space, or C.A.T.S. This represented a national expansion of the program, as the OSC Team collaborated with five other museums around the country:
• Arizona Science Center & Imagine Schools (Phoenix, AZ)
• Connecticut Science Center & Annie Fisher STEM Magnet School (Hartford, CT)
• DuPage Children’s Museum & Center for Success (Naperville, IL)
• Griffin Museum of Science and Industry & Bret Harte Elementary School (Chicago, IL)
• Exploratorium & YMCA of San Francisco (San Francisco, CA)
Throughout the course of the C.A.T.S. competition, students worked in teams to design a lunar colony for future astronauts to live and work on the Moon. They learned about engineering, botany, robotics, and electricity as they built a lunar habitat, food garden, lunar rover, and circuits for their projects.
To further engage the students and add a layer of fun, the OSC Team and the Grand Ave students created a mascot for the C.A.T.S. program. Neil is the official “CATS-tronaut” of the program, designed to help students learn more about space. His name was selected by the students at Grand Ave and he’s featured throughout the program’s training videos. He even came to life as a plushie complete with a hang tag full of fun facts, such as Neils’ favorite foods, sports, and where he likes to hang out!
GROWING CURIOSITY
CULTIVATING COMMUNITY WITH 4ROOTS FARM
For summer 2025, Orlando Science Center launched an exciting new phase of our ongoing partnership with 4Roots Farm, expanding access to handson science beyond our walls and into the heart of our community. Summer Camps at the 4Roots Farm Campus provided a unique experience for Orlando youth, blending sustainable agriculture, conservation, and STEM education to spark curiosity and inspire lifelong learning.
This collaboration with 4Roots put our mission into action by engaging campers in real-world experiences rooted in environmental stewardship and food science. Over six weeks, students in Grades 3 – 5 rolled up their sleeves to dig into the science behind sustainable farming, the technology reshaping food systems, and the innovations helping us to protect our planet.
Each weeklong camp centered around a different theme, from natureinspired design to environmental conservation. Every program was designed to give children the tools and confidence to see themselves as problem solvers and change makers.
The camps weren’t just about learning science; they were about living science. Guided by OSC educators in partnership with 4Roots Farm staff, campers explored the farm and greenhouses, and learned to prepare healthy meals with the Culinary Health Institute. Campers were encouraged to move beyond the classroom and experience sustainable practices firsthand, developing curiosity and envisioning how they might apply these practices to their own lives.
This partnership represents a shared commitment to bringing STEM education to the areas it’s most needed. By hosting camps in a working
farm environment, we’re reaching new audiences and expanding our impact beyond our walls. The 4Roots Farm Campus provides a unique setting to connect young learners with nature and agriculture, fields that are critical to both our local community and the future of our planet. Transformative learning doesn’t just happen in classrooms; it happens in gardens, greenhouses, kitchens, and community spaces. Thanks to 4Roots, our campers gained firsthand experience in all of these settings, all while building essential 21st century skills like creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.
Together, Orlando Science Center and 4Roots are sowing seeds for a more sustainable, informed, and inspired generation. We hope to continue to expand this partnership and grow curiosity together for years to come.
LEGACY OF WONDER: SHILPA DESHPANDE’S STORY AND A FAMILY’S LASTING IMPACT
For Shilpa Deshpande and her family, Orlando Science Center represents a cherished part of their story, deeply rooted in a legacy of gratitude and giving back. Her parents immigrated to the U.S. in pursuit of the American Dream and were embraced by a community that helped make that dream possible. Today, their family’s purpose is clear:
“We choose to support the community that gave us so much,” Shilpa says. “And that means investing in education and the future of children in Central Florida.”
Shilpa vividly remembers her first visit to Orlando Science Center as a little girl, when OSC was still located in its original Loch Haven Park building, which is now home to Orlando Shakes. “I was just in love with the place,” she recalls. “I had the best time.”
Years later, she returned with her firstborn son, who was then just a toddler in a stroller. This time, they visited the Science Center’s current,
expansive location with four floors and an observatory. “We both lit up,” she says. “It was magical seeing him fall in love with it the way I did.”
That joy soon became a tradition. The Deshpande family now supports the Science Center as Innovator Members through their family foundation. Three generations have called OSC a second home. Her two sons attend camps and visit often, darting from exhibit to exhibit like seasoned explorers. The boys are especially fascinated by space and count the Our Planet, Our Solar System exhibit as a favorite. Her sister even celebrated her wedding at OSC, a memory Shilpa describes as nothing short of magical. Meanwhile, Shilpa and her husband, Patrick, enjoy attending Science Night Live events, finding their own moments of wonder – even without the kids.
The family is especially passionate about OSC’s learning-through-play philosophy and its outreach efforts. “That means everything to us,” Shilpa shares. “It’s science learning for all, and OSC lives that mission.”
When asked what advice she’d give to someone considering supporting OSC, Shilpa eagerly adds:
“We have no hesitation in investing in OSC. We know wholeheartedly that they are wonderful stewards of our support: transparent, responsible, and always honoring their promises. They even give us meaningful choices about where our support goes.”
For the Deshpande family, OSC is more than a destination. It’s a place of belonging, discovery, and inspiration – a legacy of love, learning, and limitless potential.
TRANSFORMING DOWNTOWN INTO A FOAM-FILLED LABORATORY DURING IMMERSE FESTIVAL
Harnessing the principles of chemistry and physics to whip up energetic, bubbly blasts that visibly demonstrated gas expansion, nucleation, and reaction rates, the Science Center brought high-octane STEM fun to downtown Orlando in February 2025.
As participating artists in the IMMERSE Festival, our Public Programs Team created their biggest foam explosions ever, standing out as an epic crowd-pleasing display of science, spectacle, and sensory delight. By combining theatrical flair with tangible scientific learning, the Public Programs Team brought science to life for new audiences.
Crowds of all ages cheered as clouds of foam billowed skyward, transforming a portion of Orange Avenue into a showcase for soapy science! The immersive nature of the foam blasts made for unforgettable memories and an explosively educational evening. The IMMERSE Festival offered a compelling reminder that science isn’t confined to textbooks or labs. It can also be good, clean fun.
UNITING SCIENCE AND CULTURE TO INSPIRE
Orlando Science Center was proud to support the 2025 ZORA! Festival by curating a KidZone designed to bring engaging science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) experiences to the historic community of Eatonville. As one of the nation’s longest-running festivals celebrating African American culture and heritage, ZORA! Fest offered a meaningful platform to connect families with hands-on learning rooted in STEM and curiosity.
Through interactive activities like digital microscopes, stomp rockets, straw rockets, a movement and music mat, and a solar station, we introduced hundreds of young learners to STEM concepts in a fun and approachable way. This collaboration reflects our commitment to reaching audiences historically disconnected from STEM pathways. Our involvement was strengthened by a range of community partners who helped bring the KidZone to life with engaging and educational experiences, including:
Black Bee Honey, a youth entrepreneurship group from Parramore, educated guests on the science behind beekeeping, pollination, and honey production while selling their locally sourced products. Their presence highlighted both biology and business, giving young entrepreneurs a chance to share knowledge and engage with the public.
Florida Fossil Hunters brought a hands-on fossil exhibit featuring real specimens of extinct megafauna, large prehistoric animals closely related to mammoths and saber-toothed cats that once roamed Florida. Visitors learned how paleontologists use scientific evidence to study these ancient creatures and the environments they lived in.
The Central Florida Astronomical Society allowed guests to safely view the sun through telescopes fitted with solar filters, offering a powerful
look at astronomy and the tools scientists use to explore our solar system.
Student robotics teams from the Orlando Science School, including 5070 N.U.T.S. Robotics, and Cattlebots Robotics showcased their competitionready robots in action. These demonstrations highlighted skills in coding, engineering, and problem-solving providing young attendees with a glimpse into the world of robotics and competitive STEM learning.
Each community partner contributed their expertise, helping to expand the reach and impact of KidZone. With an estimated 12,000 attendees, the ZORA! Festival offered a powerful environment to ignite curiosity and celebrate learning. By blending science education with cultural celebration, this collaborative effort demonstrated how nonprofits can work together to inspire the next generation of innovators and critical thinkers.
OUR PROMISE TO THE PLANET
At Orlando Science Center, conservation is more than a cause – it’s a commitment that shapes how we educate, engage, and empower our community. When our newest exhibit, Life, opened in April 2024, it represented a step up in our efforts to immerse and educate visitors in their impact on our planet and our own commitment to conservation efforts both locally and globally.
Among the most compelling examples of this is our work to protect the Golden Lion Tamarin (Leontopithecus rosalia), an endangered primate native to Brazil’s Atlantic Coastal Forest. Due to massive deforestation, only 2% of this critical habitat remains, forcing tamarins into isolated “islands” of forest with no safe passage between them. Through our partnership with Save The Golden Lion Tamarin and Brazil’s Associação Mico-Leão Dourado, we support reforestation efforts that reconnect these fragmented habitats and offer tamarins a future in the wild.
The Rainforest gallery within the Life exhibit offers a vibrant, immersive experience that brings this story to life. Guests can meet our resident Golden-Headed Lion Tamarins (Leontopithecus chrysomelas) – close relatives of the Golden Lion Tamarin – and learn about their natural behaviors, their role in the ecosystem, and the challenges they face. Their presence sparks empathy and helps visitors understand the urgent need for conservation action.
Beyond species protection, OSC is dedicated to sustainable practices and climate action. We’ve been a Gold LEED Certified building since 2009 and continue to educate the public through engaging programs like Science Matters and Project A.W.E.S.O.M.E., a partnership with OUC – The Reliable One that has reached more than 130,000 students with water and energy conservation messaging and activities.
Guests can learn more about our conservation initiatives in the new Conservation Hallway on Level 1 of the Science Center, located between the Life exhibit and the 4Roots Cafe. In addition to in-depth information on each cause, guests will have access to hands-on interactives where they can experience key elements of each of the habitats these animals call home. We’re also excited to launch an Augmented Reality experience in December 2025, in which guests can become immersed in these habitats themselves.
Thanks to the support of our community and partners, we’re taking bold steps to inspire conservation-minded citizens. Together, we’re not just building exhibits, we’re building a better future for our planet – and that’s a promise.
LEARNING THROUGH PLAY WITH THE LEGO GROUP
Orlando Science Center is proud to rejoin the LEGO® Playful Learning Museum Network. Now in its fourth and biggest year, the network— hosted by the Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC) and funded by the LEGO Foundation—brings together children’s museums and science centers to pioneer playful learning experiences both inside their institutions and out in the communities they serve.
As a member of the LEGO Playful Learning Museum Network, OSC was awarded a grant to promote learning through play. Grant funding supports student workshops presented at Orlando Science Center’s Neighborhood Science program at Grand Avenue Neighborhood Center in Holden Heights, the Bradley-Otis Boys & Girls Club in West Lakes, and the Rosemont Community Center in Rosemont. Grant funding will also support the development of a new, hands-on Learning through Play (LTP) experience on the exhibit floor of Orlando Science
Center as well as continuing to fund playful learning training for Orlando Science Center staff, volunteers, and community partners.
This partnership is an important component to OSC as LTP workshops allow our staff to grow in their facilitation techniques, gain a more in depth understanding of play, and increase their understanding of the important role that the Science Center plays in our community. “Our involvement with the LEGO Playful Learning Museum Network has helped us understand that Play is a serious learning method. Participation in the Network has helped our Team create more intentional playful moments for our guests,” said JoAnn Newman, President & CEO of Orlando Science Center. “Children naturally play, and we want adults to embrace the concept and return to playful learning as well.”
An exciting addition this year includes support for the development, creation and implementation of an all-new Learning through Play experience on OSC’s exhibit floor. This hands-on experience will allow visitors to experience characteristics of play, such as being joyful, socially interactive, actively engaging, meaningful, and iterative. It will be designed utilizing feedback, ideas, and expertise from other museums participating in the LEGO Playful Learning Museum Network, such as the Arizona Science Center, the Connecticut Science Center, and the Museum of Science, Boston.
Learn more at:
SPARK STEM FEST: IGNITE YOUR CURIOSITY
3-DAY CELEBRATION OF INNOVATION & IMAGINATION
2025 marked Orlando Science Center’s third annual Spark STEM Fest
Presented by UCF Office of Research, a multi-day festival exploring all things Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). Open to curious minds of all ages, Spark STEM Fest connects the public with experts and organizations from various STEM fields. Spark provides a unique opportunity for attendees to directly interact with cuttingedge science research and technology, as well as everyday applications of STEM concepts across a wide range of topics, careers, and interests.
Spark is a celebration of technology and innovation, igniting curiosity in STEM careers, empowering meaningful connections between the public and STEM professionals, and raising awareness of the value of STEM in everyday life.
Presenters including entrepreneurs, engineers, inventors, and researchers showcased their latest creations, both highlighting Central Florida’s growing STEM ecosystem and inspiring the next generation of business leaders and innovators. Interactive presentations and workshops highlighted the importance of 21st century skills like problem solving, creativity, communication, and critical thinking. Visitors learned from some of the greatest innovators in Central Florida – UCF researchers; Disney Imagineers; dancing robot dogs and their coding masters; marine biologists; and World Champion Magician Jason Latimer, with his show “Impossible Science,” which used illusions to illuminate science concepts. Latimer’s performance showcased the power of wonder and the importance of asking questions in our attempts to understand the universe.
SPARK STEM FEST PARTICIPATION
11,000+
Attendees
44+ Performances
1,670+ Volunteers & Staff
70+ Exhibits
27 Sponsors & Benefactors
For nearly 15-years, the University of Central Florida’s Office of Research has been a proud sponsor of Spark STEM Fest (formerly known as Otronicon)! As Florida’s Premier Engineering and Technology University, our shared belief in the power of STEM education unites scientists, engineers, and innovative thinkers by exploring cutting-edge topics that are shaping the future.
Spark STEM Fest is more than a learning experience—it’s a launchpad for realworld applications of complex ideas and helps inspire the wonder of discovery for the next generation of professionals. We understand that well at UCF, where we have been ranked among the nation’s top five most innovative universities. With experts in space to healthcare, to optics and more, our research ingenuity extends far beyond the lab at Spark STEM Fest.
Events like Spark STEM Fest help cultivate community connections between researchers, students, and industry leaders to make an impact. We are the University for the Future, and partnering with the Orlando Science Center further supports UCF’s mission to unleash the potential of people and ideas to positively change the world!
Mikita Nayee, Interim Director, Marketing and Communications, University of Central Florida Office of Research
IMPACT NUMBERS
Orlando Science Center reaches hundreds of thousands of people each year as we connect the dots between the fun and wonder of science and its real-world applications. We engage, educate, and inspire others through hands-on exhibits, compelling live shows, and impactful programs delivered on-site and throughout the community. STEM starts here, from our littlest learners to the curious who realize you are never too old to learn something new.
689,392 Attendees
376,297 Youth Attendance
31,435 Youth participating in Preschool, Camps, & Classes
33,214 Volunteer Hours
772 Volunteers
14,878 Member Households
129,917 Students & Educators
SUPPORT FLOW
WHERE OUR SUPPORT COMES FROM
Public Support: $2,020,679
Private Support: $2,802,786
Earned Revenue: $13,252,091
WHERE OUR SUPPORT GOES
Programming Expenses: $11,898,799
Physical Plant Costs: $2,265,877
Management & General: $1,565,946
Contributed Materials & Services: $460,136
Fundraising Expenses: $536,565
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Jim Atchison SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Retired
Rebecca Church Massey Services, Inc.
Michelle DeVos Orlando Magic Ownership Group
Roi Ewell Ewell & Associates, LLC
Zeke Flores Flying Concessions
Collin Hayward 1898 & Co
Dr. Sarah Layton
L & M Wildwood Property Holdings
Brendan Lynch Lowndes
Jenise Osani* Orlando Utilities Commission
Lynn Sedwick RSM US, LLP
Dr. Richard Signer
AdventHealth for Children Retired
Demetria Sloan* Vantage Point Coaching, LLC
VOTING TRUSTEES
Maureen Brockman Embrace Families Foundation
Eric Burris WESH, Channel 2
Jaison Busby Orlando Utilities Commission
Juliana Calloway Black Rooster Taqueria
Oluchi Chuku Bank of America
Lisy Correa Deloitte, LLP
Kassandra Crimi WFTV, Channel 9
Jim DeCarlo Greenberg Traurig, LLP
Shilpa Deshpande-Finnerty Deshpande Family Foundation
Valentina Ellison Earl Enterprises
Christina Epperson GrayRobinson, P.A.
Devin Elmore* Universal Orlando
Arash Farshid Doorbell Capital, LLC
Melanie Forbrick Siemens Energy
Brian Gill Thumbprint
Tonja Graham Duke Energy
Lawrence Hatch First Horizon Bank
Tina Henton
CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP
Eric Lehman Technology West Group
Sean Murphy 3N2 Sports
Sarah Nemes
SeaWorld Parks & Resorts
Dawn Ofodile VyStar Credit Union
Ben Robinson Holland & Knight
Camden Rock Signature Aviation
Dr. Bret Scheuplein Complete Care
Divinne Smith* Smith and Williams Trial Group
Shawn Strandberg Orlando Health Physician Associates
Dr. Peter Wearden* Nemours Children’s Health Systems
André Williams Lockheed Martin
Keshia Woodie Orlando Magic
EX-OFFICIO TRUSTEES
Captain Robert Betts Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division
Melissa Byrd Orange County Public Schools
Sabrice Guerrier Rollins College
Mike Hess City of Orlando
Captain Tim James* Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division
Dr. Elizabeth Klonoff UCF College of Graduate Studies Retired
Kristine Kraus Seminole County Public Schools
Karen Saunders* PEO STRI
Dr. Stephen Summers Seminole State College
Dr. Maggy Tomova* University of Central Florida
Andrea Wesser-Brawner The Florida High Tech Corridor
HONORARY TRUSTEES
S. James Gates, Jr., Ph.D University of Maryland
Steve Goldman
Les Kramer, Ph.D Advance Materials Professional Services
M.J. Soileau, Ph.D University of Central Florida
Nelson Ying, Sr., Ph.D China Pavilion, EPCOT
*Board term ended June 30, 2025
DONORS
ANNUAL CAMPAIGN
A special thank you to all of our donors who inspire science learning for all through their annual support.
MEDALLION
SOCIETY
We recognize with our deepest appreciation our supporters whose cumulative giving to Orlando Science Center exceeds $1 million. Their generous support truly inspires science learning for all.
A. Friends’ Foundation
AdventHealth for Children
Charter CommunicationsSpectrum
City of Orlando
The Darden Foundation
Dr. Phillips Charities
Duke Energy Foundation
Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation
FINFROCK
Florida Department of Education
Florida Division of Arts and Culture
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Institute of Museum and Library Services
The Isaacs Family
The Kresge Foundation
Dr. Sarah Layton
Lockheed Martin
The Martin Andersen-Gracia Andersen Foundation
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Office of Naval Research
Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs
Orange County Government
Orlando Utilities Commission
The Pabst Steinmetz Foundation
Publix Super Markets Charities
Seminole County Government
Seminole County Public Schools
State of Florida
United Arts of Central Florida
University of Central Florida
Walt Disney World® Resort
Ying Family Foundation
PIONEER SOCIETY
We recognize with our deepest appreciation our supporters whose cumulative giving to Orlando Science Center exceeds $100,000. Their generous support truly inspires science learning for all.
Akerman, LLP
The Art and Phyllis Grindle Foundation
AT&T Florida
Bank of America
Joel and Susan Barker
Bert W. Martin Foundation
The Bosserman Family
Carl L. and Gini Weyand Trust
Central Florida Capital Funds Committee
Central Florida Foundation, Inc.
The Chesley G. Magruder Foundation Code.org
Dr. Fred and Gayle Curtis
Edward R. Byers Company
Jesse and Mary Eisner
Electronic Arts
Elizabeth Morse Genius Foundation
Embrace Families
Event Network
Virginia and Robert Finfrock
Florida Advisory Council on Environmental Education
Florida Blue Foundation
Florida Dairy Farmers
Florida Department of Labor
The Florida High Tech Corridor
Florida Hydrogen Initiative
Florida Power
Florida Prepaid
Florida Space Grant Consortium
Florida State University
Full Sail University
GBL Systems Corporation
Ginsburg Family Foundation
Glenn W. Bailey Foundation
Goldman Foundation
Sharon and Marc Hagle
Harriett Lake Family Trust
Catriona and Mike Harris
Heart of Florida United Way
Annette and Robert Irvine
Jack Holloway Foundation
James M. Cox Foundation
JP Morgan Chase & Co.
The LEGO Group
Margaret A. Cargill Foundation
Massey Services, Inc.
McCormick Foundation
Microsoft
National Geographic Cinema Ventures
National Science Foundation
Orange County Citizens’ Review Panel
Orange County Early Learning Coalition
Orlando Health
Orlando Magic Youth Foundation
Osceola County School Board
Phillip Crosby Foundation
PNC Bank
SeaWorld Parks and Resorts Orlando
Seay Business Solutions, LLC
Siemens Energy, Inc.
St. John’s River Water Management District
STEM Alliance of Central Florida
Paula Stuart
SunTrust Bank
U.S. Department of Education
Universal Orlando Foundation
UCF College of Sciences
UCF Institute for Simulation & Training
UCF Office of Research
VoLo Foundation
W.T. Bland Jr. Charitable Trust
Engrid Wallace
Wallace Foundation
Walmart Foundation
Westinghouse Foundation
WFTV/Channel 9 News
DONORS
Thank you to all of our donors who inspire science learning for all through their annual support during our fiscal year of July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025.
VISIONARY CIRCLE
($100,000+)
AdventHealth for Children
City of Orlando
Department Of Defense
Department of Navy
Michelle and Ryan DeVos
Dr. Phillips Charities
Jesse and Mary Eisner
Orange County Government
Dr. Sarah Layton
The LEGO Group
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
Office of Naval Research
Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs
Orange County Citizens’ Review Panel
Orlando Utilities Commission
United Arts of Central Florida
Walt Disney World® Resort
CHAIR’S CIRCLE
($50,000 - $99,999)
A. Friends’ Foundation
Bank of America
Bert W. Martin Foundation
Florida Prepaid
Glenn W. Bailey Foundation
Lockheed Martin
Nemours Children’s Hospital
Orlando Magic Youth Foundation
The Pabst Steinmetz Foundation
Publix Super Markets Charities
The Chesley G. Magruder Foundation
PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE
($10,000 - $49,999)
James Atchison
BNY
Fred and Gayle Curtis
Eve and Jim DeCarlo
Deshpande Family Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation
Dr. Jason Eichenholz
Environmental Defense Fund
Roi and Chandra Ewell
First Horizon Foundation
Florida Blue Foundation
Florida Dairy Farmers
Florida Space Grant Consortium
The Fu Family
Ginsburg Family Foundation
Institute of Museum and Library Services
Isermann Family Foundation
The Joe & Sarah Galloway Foundation
Land Rover Orlando Massey Services, Inc.
National Endowment For The Arts
Orlando Health
Pizza Hut
Shawn and Dara Ratner
Seay Business Solutions, LLC
Lynn and Dan Sedwick
Spotlight Energy
Universal Orlando Foundation
University of Central Florida Office of Research
Verizon
VyStar Credit Union
W.T. Bland Jr. Charitable Trust
Tommy and Teresa Weclew
Why Not Change The World Foundation
William T. Morris Foundation
Yelp
Ying Family Foundation
LEADERSHIP CIRCLE
($5,000 - $9,999)
Association of Science and Technology Centers
Bradford and Jennifer Benn
Burns & McDonnell Foundation
CliftonLarsonAllen, LLP
David Collins and Stephanie Garber
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Fork Farms
GrayRobinson, P.A.
Tina and Douglas Henton
Jenoptik
Lowndes
Melody and Brendan Lynch
Manufacturer’s Association of Central Florida
Margaret McCartney & R. Parks
Williams Foundation
The Martin Andersen-Gracia Andersen Foundation
Mass Virtual, Inc.
Orange Technical College
Orlando Magic
Qorvo
Rollins College
SeaWorld Parks and Resorts
Orlando
Troy Shimet
Demetria and Jeffrey Sloan
SpaceX
TD Charitable Foundation
The Florida High Tech Corridor
Threatlocker
University of Central Florida College of Medicine
University of Central Florida College of Sciences
University of Central Florida Institute for Simulation & Training
University of Central Florida RESTORES
INVESTOR CIRCLE
($2,500 - $4,999)
Eleanor and Keith Ackermann
Thomas Anguish
Kelly and Dirk Baker in honor of Sydney Baker
The Bond Foundation
Michelle and Mark Bryson
Faith and Jeff Buhler
Code.org
Engineering and Computer Simulation
Florida Photonics Cluster
Carolyn Gentile
Michael and Terri Harding
Holland & Knight LLP
The Joe W. and Dorothy Dorsett
Brown Foundation
Brian and Lisa Linden
Marsh & McLennan Agency
JoAnn and Rich Newman
UCF Florida Interactive
Entertainment Academy
PATRON CIRCLE
($1,000 - $2,499)
Anonymous
Austin Education
Debbie and Jim Balaschak
Melanie and Charles Barker
Lyn and David Berelsman
Steve and Nikki Botwinik
Maureen and Chris Brockman
Kassandra Crimi
Drusilla Farwell Foundation
Edward E. Haddock, Jr. Family Foundation
Kingsley and Devin Elmore
Clive Frazier
Silke and Martin Galassini
Heart of Florida United Way
Pamela and Laverne Patrick Herzog
Vikki Hodgkins
Kristen and Davis Hostetter
Hytec Dealer Services, Inc.
Steven L. Jackson
Dr. Michael and Nancy Keating
Kenneth H. Kraft Memorial Fund
Kinsman Crumb Charitable Trust
PATRON CIRCLE (CONTINUED)
In Memory of Dr. Frank A. Lambersone
Maria Mason
Frank & Rebecca Meyer
Mari and Jim Moye
Sean and Stephanie Murphy
Steven D. Nakagawa
Rhonda and Johnn O’Brien
Dr. Ron and Nina Oppenheim
Jenise and David Osani
Dr. Gloria Pickar
Alexis and Jim Pugh
Benjamin Robinson and Debra Rosenbluth
Michael J. and Aimee Rusinko Kakos
Maggie Schoenfeld
Alan L. Sherbourne
Bill and Dottie Silverman
Charles and Ann Simpson
William and Leslie Slot
Paul Sohl
Hudie and Fred Stone
Lyndsey and Jonathan Sutherland
Debra and Tom Tschopp
UCF College of Engineering & Computer Science
University of Central Florida
CREATE
Valencia College
Donna and Keith Van Allen
Hardy Vaughn and Betty Brady
Waggoner Foundation in memory of Robert Waggoner
Susan and Joseph Warren
Craig and Jeanne Weeks
UNLOCK SCIENCE CAMPAIGN
Through Unlock Science, an ongoing comprehensive capital campaign, Orlando Science Center is investing resources as part of a strategic effort to better serve the growing 21st century learning needs within its walls and out in the community. As Unlock Science progresses, OSC is generating long-term benefits for the community by improving visitor experiences through renovations to exhibit spaces, revitalizing program content, and expanding resources to increase access. OSC gratefully acknowledges the generous commitments made before June 30, 2025, by the donors below in support of the Unlock Science campaign.
($10,000,000+)
Orange County Government
Orange County Tourism Community
($1,000,000$9,999,999)
AdventHealth for Children
FINFROCK
Florida Division of Arts and Culture
The Isaacs Family
Dr. Sarah Layton
Office of Naval Research
Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs
($500,000 - $999,999)
A. Friends’ Foundation
City of Orlando
Michelle and Ryan DeVos
Dr. Phillips Charities
Publix Super Markets Charities
State of Florida
($100,000 - $499,999)
The Art and Phyllis Grindle Foundation
Linda Avery and Janet Edwards in honor of Marian and Bill Lacy
Bert W. Martin Foundation
The Chesley G. Magruder Foundation
Elizabeth Morse
Genius Foundation
Embrace Families
Event Network
Virginia and Robert Finfrock
Sharon and Marc Hagle
Harriett Lake Family Trust
James M. Cox Foundation
Margaret A. Cargill Foundation
The Martin Andersen-Gracia Andersen Foundation
Massey Services, Inc.
Orlando Health
PNC Bank
Paula Stuart
W.T. Bland Jr. Charitable Trust
($50,000 - $99,999)
Florida Blue Foundation
The Hearst Foundation
Orlando Utilities Commission
($10,000 - $49,999)
Sheila and Patrick Aland
Waymon J. Armstrong
James Atchison
Bridgette and David Baten
Faith and Jeff Buhler
Carmen Burkhammer and Scott Wilson
Lisa and Michel Champagne
Deshpande Family Foundation
DiPasqua Enterprises, Inc.
Catriona and Mike Harris
The Joe and Sarah Galloway Foundation
Karen and Dennis Lind
Suneera and Faizal Madhani
Esther McKean
Heather and Samual Miller
JoAnn and Rich Newman
Simoli and Nirav Pandya
Monica and John Rivers
Seay Business Solutions, LLC
Dr. Richard and Helaine Signer
William J. Slot, Jr.
Tupperware Brands Corporation
Walt Disney World® Resort
Tommy and Teresa Weclew
Ying Family Foundation
($1,000 - $9 ,999)
Cindy and Bruce Anderson
Anonymous
BDO USA, LLP
Linda Cadogan and Chuck
Beverly
Kassandra and Gabriel Candelaria
Amy and Chris Chapman
Shannon and Min Cho
David Christensen
Stewart and Kelly Clark
Sue and James Cross
Duke Energy Foundation
Kingsley and Devin Elmore
Roi and Chandra Ewell
Rita and Tim Flaherty
Scott Grabowski and Suzanne Worthington
Betsy and Shelton Granade
Gary and Brandee Heath
Karen and Darrell Lane
Brandan Lanman
Matthew and Julie Levine
Marilyn Moran and Michael Weaver
Steven D. Nakagawa
Dennis Nolte
Lynn and Dan Sedwick
Dottie and Bill Silverman
Demetria and Jeffrey Sloan
Mila Smith
Lorraine and Jerry Sullivan
Marc and Jennifer Swanson
Keri and Luke Widmer
William H. and Mattie Wattis
Harris Foundation
Lindsay Winter
1955 LEGACY SOCIETY
We are incredibly grateful to the individuals who have provided for Orlando Science Center in their will or estate plans.
William Gluyas, Jr.
Terri and Michael Harding
David Cole Hardy
Betty Houseman
Ruth and Frank Hubbard
Martha Lacy
Dr. Sarah Layton
Edwin Murray
Engrid Wallace
Carl L. and Gini Weyland
Scott H. Wilson
If you have already named Orlando Science Center as a beneficiary in your estate plans, please let us know so that we may express our gratitude and recognize you in our Legacy Society.
IN KIND SUPPORT
We appreciate the individuals and community partners who support Orlando Science Center through In-Kind products and services.
Aloft Hotel
Aquatica Orlando
Audubon Center for Birds of Prey
Barrymore Hotel
Blue Martini
Bluewater Freedivers
Bradford Renaissance Portraits
Brightline
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Capital Genealogy
Caribe Royale Orlando
City of Orlando
Darden Restaurants
Terry Davis
Discovery Cove
Dubsdread Golf Course
4 Rivers Smokehouse
Fun Spot Attractions
Hawks Cay Resort
Invigorate Asheville
Ivanhoe Park Brewing
Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream
Dr. Sarah Layton
Ledford & Rhodes
Legacy Vacation Resorts
Lockheed Martin
Maxine’s on Shine
Mike’s Hard Lemonade
Orange County National Golf Center and Lodge
Orlando Magic
Pizza Hut
Plate Above Catering
SeaWorld Parks and Resorts
Orlando
Sonny’s BBQ
Southern Glazer’s Wine and
Spirits
Staybridge Suites
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Celeste Hotel
Total Wine
Travel Country
Turner Construction Company
Universal Orlando
WestJet
Winter Park Laser
Yak & Yeti Restaurant
VOLUNTEER SERVICE
Orlando Science Center’s dedicated volunteers play a vital and invaluable role in our efforts to inspire science learning for all. A special thank you to our volunteers who have served for 5 years or more by July 1, 2025.
Irene Morris – 50 years
Gayle Nance – 35 years
Fred Curtis – 29 years
Jeanne Kalil – 28 years
Marty Galassini – 25 years
Bob Sorensen – 21 years
Valerie First – 18 years
Josh Synovec – 16 years
Eric Hoin – 13 years
Angela Kirby – 13 years
Keith Ackermann – 12 years
Ileana Giurca – 12 years
Deanna Keller – 11 years
Stanley Chin – 11 years
David Baer – 10 years
Steve Bryan – 10 years
Silke Galassini – 10 years
Bill Bunch – 7 years
UNITED ARTS
DONOR RECOGNITION
United Arts is Central Florida’s local arts agency that strengthens artists, creatives and arts organizations across the region.
Through programs, funding and resources, United Arts helps local artists and art organizations achieve their impact goals.Through community engagement initiatives, the nonprofit organization strives to accomplish its vision of access to quality arts for everyone in Central Florida.
Since 1989, United Arts has raised over $200 million towards art, arts education, culture, science and history — an ongoing effort to enrich the community and inspire future generations.
United Arts is deeply grateful to its donors and community partners for their investment in and support of Central Florida’s creative community and the enormous impact it has on our lives every day.
Scan the QR code to view the full list of 2024 contributors to United Arts and the Collaborative Campaign for the Arts between July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025.
Learn more unitedartscfl.org
YOUR GIFT HAS A BIG IMPACT!
Did you know Orlando Science Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit? We rely on supporters like you to help fund our exhibits, events, and community outreach.
Thanks to our generous donors, Orlando Science Center has had an impact on millions of lives in Central Florida. Nearly 30% of our annual budget comes from supporters who understand the importance of high-quality STEM learning opportunities and want to ensure every child is afforded the opportunity to pursue their aspirations through our engaging and life changing programs like Neighborhood Science.
WHY YOUR GIFT MATTERS
Access to high-quality STEM education is a crucial factor in shaping the futures of young learners, and we believe that education should be available to all. Many students face significant challenges with fewer opportunities to engage in enriching educational experiences outside of the classroom. Your support ensures that these children have the chance to explore, innovate, and grow through our STEM programs and initiatives. By investing in their education, you are providing the spark that can ignite a lifelong passion for learning and open doors to brighter futures. Your generosity makes all the difference.
WAYS TO GIVE
With your help, Orlando Science Center has been a trusted leader in science education since 1955 – working directly with our community and schools to ensure that every youth has a chance to learn, explore, and dream of what they can become. Your ongoing support provides critical access to educational programming, meaningful experiences, and the opportunity for young minds to ignite their curiosity and creativity, turning their ideas into reality. There are many ways to support Orlando Science Center! For more information, contact us at development@osc.org or 407.514.2183.
INDIVIDUAL GIFTS
Give a gift of any size from yourself or on behalf of your family by check or credit card. Annual or monthly giving plans are also available.
MATCHING GIFTS
The impact of your gift may be doubled thanks to employers who sponsor matching gift programs that match charitable contributions or volunteer hours.
LEGACY GIVING
The long-term commitment of a planned gift is a way to create a personal legacy supporting OSC. Planned gifts take many forms and may include IRA contributions and retirement plans, real estate, life insurance, and personal bequests.
CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP
There’s no better place for your company to be seen than OSC. We offer a wide variety of partnership opportunities to meet your charitable and community engagement goals.
SECURITIES & STOCKS
Donating stocks and other securities is one of the most tax-efficient ways to give and can increase the amount of funds available for charitable giving.
DONOR ADVISED FUNDS
Recommend a grant to Orlando Science Center through your Donor Advised Fund.
