We recognize that science literacy empowers individuals, spurs economic development and contributes to a healthy, vibrant community. To that end, we are committed to creating a culture of inclusion where everyone feels welcome and safe to fully participate in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math), and to centering equity in our current exhibit and programming experiences, as well as in plans for the new facility.
We believe that Accessibility encompasses not only physical access but that it also applies to other barriers including affordability. Da Vinci Science Center has several options that ensure STEAM access for all: Linny Fowler STEAM Scholarship Fund and the Access for All Discount Program.
Women in Science & Engineering (WISE)
The WISE Initiative is dedicated to creating a supportive community of women employed in STEM fields and encouraging girls who aspire to follow a STEM career path.
Linny Fowler STEAM Scholarship Fund
The Linny Fowler STEAM Scholarship Fund (formerly known as the Science Inquiry Fund) provides need-based scholarships to students so they can explore science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM) subjects and careers.
Access for All Discount Program
The Science Center is pleased to extend Access for All admission and membership discounts to SNAP, TANF, WIC, and EBT cardholders.
STEAM Career Pathways Program
A branch of the comprehensive initiative that engages students in grades 6-12 with fields that will address the challenge of advancing educational attainment and employment opportunities for groups traditionally underrepresented in STEAM careers in the Lehigh Valley.
Career Connection Days
Students meet real STEAM professionals during these special career field trip days at Da Vinci Science Center at PPL Pavilion.
Pride in STEAM
Da Vinci Science Center’s Pride in STEAM initative supports members of the LGBTQ+ community in the STEAM fields – science, technology, engineering, art, and math – and encourages LGBTQ+ students to pursue STEAM careers.
Da Vinci Science Center has taken steps within its organization to ensure its policies and procedures are inclusive of all races, ethnicities, sexualities, and gender identities, including signing the LGBT Business Pledge from the LGBTQ Business Council of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce. The Science Center is committed to creating a welcoming, safe environment for all employees, visitors, and other members of the public it may serve.
Spanish Language Inclusion
Spanish speakers make up a significant portion of the Lehigh Valley community. In fact, 54% of Allentown’s population identify themselves as Hispanic. As the Da Vinci Science Center works toward inclusion and diversity in science communication, we continue to increase the number of Spanish-speaking educators and other staff members. We are also incorporating Spanish-language text into our exhibits and promotional materials.
Isaacman Next Generation Science Institute
Providing learning opportunities for teachers, students, families, administrators, and school board members to prepare for next-generation science teaching and learning.
