A Message from the President

The Great Lakes Science Center, now in its eighth year, has established itself as one of the area's leading educational and cultural institutions. It has also gained a presence and reputation as an informal science education engine for Northern Ohio, and a dynamic place where people of all ages can come again and again to learn while having fun. With attendance approaching 4.5 million visitors, the Science Center has met or surpassed the goals established as part of the capital campaign Master Plan. A significant highlight of achievement has been the organization's ability to operate in the black, exclusive of depreciation, every year since opening.

With education programs emphasizing "hands-on, minds on" learning, the Science Center has now served over 1 million students and educators through its formal programs that include school tours, professional development series, overnight camp-ins, summer programs and science-themed birthday parties. Most of these classes and groups have come from Northern Ohio, while others have visited from cities and towns throughout the state, as well as from Pennsylvania, New York, Michigan, and even Ontario.

Since opening, the Science Center's Public Programs Department has performed over 31,000 demonstrations and shows. This level of activity is comparable to or exceeds the country's other leading and more mature science museums. A rotating schedule of demonstrations has included everything from cryogenics and electricity to rocket propulsion. The Great Lakes Situation Room, a unique two-story multimedia center, offers visitors the opportunity for group and individual interaction.

More than 400 hands-on exhibits located on three main exhibit floors engage visitors in memorable, experiential learning. Since opening, over 100 exhibits have been added. In addition to the permanent exhibits, the Science Center has premiered over 20 traveling exhibits designed to keep the visitor experience new and inviting. Special exhibits have included Titanic and China: 7000 Years of Discovery.

The Cleveland Clinic OMNIMAX® Theater has enjoyed striking success since opening. More than 20 films have premiered on the big screen including Everest, Journey into Amazing Caves and Coral Reef Adventure.