Museum of Science and Industry

More than 75 years ago, philanthropist and businessman Julius Rosenwald put Chicago on the map as a world center for "industrial enlightenment" when he founded the Museum, the first of its kind in the United States. Today, the Museum of Science and Industry is fulfilling its important vision to inspire and motivate our children to achieve their full potential in the fields of science, technology, medicine and engineering.

Here at the Museum, we strongly believe that science and innovation are critical to America's success in the 21st century. We face increasing global competition for jobs and business investment as well as important challenges such as climate change and national security. We believe that America has a strong foundation of scientific inquiry and innovation on which to build. But it is the workforce of tomorrow that must meet these 21st century challenges. That is why we believe that our vision is so vital to the bright future we all work to achieve for our children. That is why we have undertaken a momentous effort to realize this vision and to reawaken our fascination with science and our natural desire to learn more about the world around us.

In a recent national survey with Harris Interactive, the Museum found that 96 percent of Americans believe the United States should be ranked first in science education. We agree. We have spent several years working with experts from around the country on a strategy that will help us realize our vision for the future. This group of several hundred people includes engineers and astronauts from NASA, experts in the field of bionic medicine, teachers, physicists from top research universities, and civic and business leaders.

Together, we are working to implement a bold plan to inspire the next generation of scientists—the first man or woman to step foot on Mars, the child destined to eradicate a disease and the innovator who will develop the world's first truly renewable fuel source. We are creating a new Center for the Advancement of Science Education, building spectacular new exhibitions and making important enhancements to the Museum experience for our guests.

We at the Museum are excited about these amazing plans for our future. It is up to all of us to ensure that America remains a leader in science, technology, medicine and engineering. The Museum has taken a leadership role through our momentous effort to inspire our children and engage their parents, teachers and communities. Thank you for your support our plans through the Science Rediscovered campaign.