MOSI receives 2009 National Medal for Museum and Library Service
MOSI receives 2009 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor for museums and libraries
The Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) has been named one of 10 recipients of the 2009 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, the nation’s highest honor for museums and libraries. With this award, MOSI joins the ranks of prestigious organizations such as the Franklin Institute and the San Diego Zoo. The annual award, made by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) since 1994, recognizes institutions for outstanding social, educational, environmental, or economic contributions to their communities.
MOSI is one of only a handful of Science Museums to receive the National Medal, which will be presented during an upcoming ceremony in Washington, D.C. MOSI will also receive a $10,000 award in recognition of its extraordinary contributions.
“It is an honor to be considered a national leader for science learning,” says MOSI President, Wit Ostrenko. “MOSI exists to educate and excite children about science; to receive a reward like this is an incredible feeling.”
“Every day, the Museum of Science & Industry makes a real difference in its community,” said IMLS Director Anne-Imelda M. Radice. “Its exemplary programs respond to community challenges, positively impact people’s lives, and serve as models for the nation’s museums. I applaud the outstanding efforts and encourage others to follow in its footsteps.”
MOSI has developed numerous programs designed to engage the community and promote learning. Specific outreach programs such as the YES! (Youth Enriched By Science) Team, a program for at-risk youth designed to develop self-esteem, self-confidence, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, while encouraging a continued interested to science and education.
The YES! Team program is funded in part by the National Hispanic Scientist of the Year Award. The National Hispanic Scientist of the Year Award was created nine years ago, when it was learned that 31 percent of the high school dropouts in the district were Hispanic. In addition to raising funds for the YES! Team, the National Hispanic Scientist of the Year participates in “Meet the Scientist Day” at MOSI where working scientists have the opportunity to interact with youth and inspire them to continue their education and reach their goals.
MOSI’s commitment to education has led to several unique opportunities for students in the Tampa area including the creation of the nation’s first ever partnership school. Run by the local school district, this Title 1 school located on the MOSI campus uses MOSI’s library and exhibits as an integrated part of the curriculum. The MOSI partnership school has 288 registered students, 98 percent of which qualify for free or reduced lunch.
Reinforcing MOSI’s commitment to the community is the annual donation of passes and free memberships throughout the local area for underserved audiences. Last year, MOSI donated approximately three-quarters of a million dollars in memberships and free passes.
The awarding of this medal to MOSI has garnered attention from the Nation’s Lawmakers. U.S. Senator Bill Nelson (FL) commented, “I’m so pleased to congratulate the Museum of Science and Industry on receiving the 2009 National Medal for Museum and Library Service. This prestigious award goes to a truly outstanding organization, whose leadership and staff go above and beyond in their dedication to provide unique educational and cultural opportunities -- inspiring children and adults alike.”
“I applaud the Museum of Science and Industry on this accomplishment. We are pleased to learn MOSI is one of just 10 institutions nationwide to receive this honor,” said U.S. Representative Kathy Castor
