CLEVELAND — The Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland has made the list of 30 finalists being considered for the 2021 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, which is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries that demonstrate significant impact in their communities.
“This recognition is a community achievement that celebrates our commitment to be co-creators with our educational, civic and workforce partners,” said Science Center President & CEO Kirsten Ellenbogen. “Great Lakes Science Center is honored to be a finalist for the nation's highest award for museums. It is a true testament to the dedicated and innovative teamwork of the Science Center’s staff, volunteers and board.”
The finalists this year include 15 museums and 15 libraries. Sherrod Brown, U.S. Sen. Rob Portman, U.S. Rep. Marcia Fudge and local teacher and school district leadership were among those who wrote letters of support that noted the Science Center’s inventive resilience in finding safe ways to continue fulfilling their mission during the pandemic, officials said.
Since the inception of the award, 105 museums have received the honor. Winners will be revealed in late spring.
“Nomination letters of support pointed to the Science Center’s work as a vital community resource, highlighting their deep partnership with Cleveland Metropolitan School District,” officials with the Science Center said Thursday. “The Science Center is home of the 9th grade of the District’s award winning MC2STEM school; they address inequities in resources and training by supporting competitive robotics teams in Cleveland schools and they partner on comprehensive programming that reaches every 6th and 7th grade class in the District.”
In support of the Great Lakes Science Center, members of the community are being asked to share stories, memories, pictures and videos on social media using #IMLSmedals.
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