New York Hall of Science Honored with a National Award for Services

The New York Hall of Science of Queens is one of 10 recipients of this year’s National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries for service to the community.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services announced the New York Hall of Science of Queens as one of 10 recipients of this year’s National Medal for Museum and Library Service. The National Medal is the nation’s highest honor given to museums and libraries for service to the community. For 21 years, the award has celebrated institutions that present extraordinary and innovative approaches to public service to make a difference for individuals, families, and communities. The award will be presented at an event in Washington, D.C., on May 18.

NYSCI was founded at the 1964–65 World's Fair and has evolved into New York’s center for interactive science, serving a half million students, teachers, and families each year. NYSCI offers exhibits and programs designed to deepen visitor engagement and inspire youth to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Significant projects include NYSCI Neighbors, a multifaceted initiative that engages more than 16,000 local participants, and the Science Career Ladder, a program that employs high school and college students to engage visitors on the museum’s floor.

“These National Medal recipients have demonstrated a genuine understanding of their communities and are committed to addressing community needs,” said Maura Marx, acting director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services. “IMLS believes museums and libraries are vital community anchors that enhance civic engagement, cultural and educational opportunities, and economic vitality. The remarkable community contributions these institutions have made are proof positive of this.” 

“STEM literacy is immensely important, from living effectively in an increasingly technological world to securing our nation’s future economic growth and competitiveness,” said Margaret Honey, NYSCI’s president and CEO. “At NYSCI, we offer a number of programs and experiences that inspire the youth in our local community to learn about STEM subjects and encourage them to pursue careers in these fields. Receiving the National Medal for our work is a great honor and a significant milestone in our journey to transform STEM learning.”

Honey and a member of the community will travel to Washington and share the impact the New York Hall of Science has had on her life during the May 18 celebration. 

These ten honorees exemplify the nation’s great libraries and museums and demonstrate outstanding impact and quality of programs, services, and partnerships, exceeding the expected levels of community outreach. They were selected from thirty finalists that were among institutions from across the country that were nominated for the honor.

After the ceremony, StoryCorps—a national nonprofit dedicated to recording, preserving, and sharing the stories of Americans—will visit the New York Hall of Science to document stories from the community.

For a complete list of 2015 recipients and to learn more about the National Medal winners, please visit www.imls.gov/medals.