After several years of planning and construction, the new 67,000 square-foot Da Vinci Science Center is opening its doors in the heart of downtown Allentown. The facility, which replaces its former location on the campus of Cedar Crest College, will make the experience more accessible to the community.
“We are so grateful for PPL’s support in helping bring this science center to fruition,” said Lin Erickson, chief executive officer for the Da Vinci Science Center. “The Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion is an incredible educational asset for our region and for our kids and families, and PPL’s leadership has helped make it happen.”
“PPL is very proud to support this major new science center for the Lehigh Valley,” said Lissette Santana, senior manager of corporate responsibility and sustainability for PPL Corporation. “PPL shares the Da Vinci Science Center’s passion for advancing science education and its commitment to ensuring access and educational opportunities in STEM are available for all children in Allentown and the surrounding Lehigh Valley.”
As part of its commitment to the science center, PPL’s contribution supports the Access for All Program, which provides reduced admission fees for children and families facing economic hardship.
Many of the experiences were designed in partnership with community organizations, like the Wildlands Conservancy, whose Lehigh River Watershed exhibit is home to four North American river otters and several other animals indigenous to Pennsylvania.
The Science in the Making collection (located on the first floor) includes exhibits that explore how scientific principles are applied to manufacturing. Visitors to this section will also experience the PPL Electricity Zone exhibit, highlighting key careers in the utility industry, a Faraday cage to safely “channel” electricity, and an interactive solar power demonstration.
PPL and Da Vinci: A long-standing relationship
For more than 30 years, the Da Vinci Science Center has inspired minds of all ages by bringing science to life. “PPL has been our biggest supporter over the years since our initial founding in the late ‘90s,” shared Erickson. “We truly appreciate PPL’s long-standing support of STEAM education.”
“As long-time supporters, we have witnessed the incredible educational impact the organization has had over time,” Santana added. “We are excited about the even greater impact that will be realized in the future through this world-class community science center.”
Click the link to learn even more about the Da Vinci Science Center.
