The DTE Energy Foundation plans to donate $1 million to the Michigan Science Center in Detroit.
According to their press release, the donation will span a period of five years, specifically funding the science center's STEM educational program (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).
Formerly known as the Detroit Science Center, the building was closed indefinitely in 2011 because of monetary issues. At one point, the Science Center considered liquidating its assets. In 2012 numerous donations enabled the center to reopen under its new name, the Michigan Science Center.
MLive reporter David Muller writes that DTE is one of a myriad of corporate sponsors keeping the center going:
The funding commitment from DTE and other corporate sponsors such as General Motors, Ford and Toyota will help the science center effectively manage its budget as it implements its outreach programs, said the science center’s marketing manager, Kerri Budde.
The center hopes the STEM programs will inspire a generation of young scientists in Michigan.
From the DTE Foundation press release:
"The science center is an educational gem that attracts and inspires thousands of Southeastern Michigan families every year," said Fred Shell, chair of the DTE Energy Foundation and vice president of DTE Energy's Corporate and Government Affairs group. "The Foundation's contribution is part of DTE Energy's broader support of STEM education initiatives preparing the future workforce of our state."
Along with support from foundations, the Center's budget is also supported by admission prices - $10 for children and $13 for adults.
- Paige Pfleger, Michigan Radio Newsroom
