Maryland Science Center press release:
The Maryland Science Center is pleased to announce a $1 million gift from The Kahlert Foundation to enhance some of the Science Center’s most important programs, including the relocation of the always-popular Shed makerspace and free field trip admission for Carroll County and Howard County school groups.
Thanks to The Kahlert Foundation’s commitment, The Shed will move to a larger space on the Maryland Science Center’s second floor, allowing more students, families and groups to participate in hands-on, self-directed experiences and focused workshops. The Shed hosts drop-in activities that blend art, craft, science, engineering, and technology; visitors can take-on a problem-solving challenge, prototype an inventive object, explore working with new tools and materials, and investigate the inner workings of familiar items.
The new Shed will be named in honor of The Kahlert Foundation. The Kahlert Foundation’s gift will also support free field trip admission for over 11,000 Carroll County and Howard County students and teachers over the next five years.
Since it was founded in 1991, The Kahlert Foundation has been focused on improving the quality of life and well-being of the community especially for children, the next generation of leaders who will have a significant impact on the future of our country.
“The world is changing quickly,” said Foundation Executive Director Ellen Myers. “We want to make sure that students are ready to respond to and take advantage of new developments and opportunities, particularly in the areas of science and technology. What better way to get them ready than to learn by doing. And who better than the Maryland Science Center to give them those experiences.”
The Shed is of particular interest to the Foundation. William “Bill” Kahlert, an engineer, co-founded EVAPCO, a Carroll County-based manufacturer of evaporative cooling and industrial refrigeration products. Says Greg Kahlert, Bill’s son, “The Shed is a fantastic place for kids to have hands-on fun while learning about engineering, technology, and problem solving.”
“We are so grateful to The Kahlert Foundation for this incredible grant. They really understand and appreciate how we inspire children and introduce them to important STEM concepts and processes,” said Maryland Science Center President and CEO Mark J. Potter. “We are gratified by their endorsement of our work and are excited to enhance our impact through their generosity. This gift also illustrates that supporters around the State see the importance of the experiences at our Inner Harbor location. We truly appreciate The Kahlert Foundation’s continued support.”
