SUNY College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering to integrate the Children's Museum of Science and Technology

Further building the educational pipeline in accordance with Governor Andrew Cuomo's innovation-driven model for economic growth, the SUNY College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (CNSE) and the Children's Museum of Science and Technology (CMOST) in Troy today announced an agreement through which CMOST will be integrated into CNSE, a transformation that will include a multi-million dollar investment by the NanoCollege to establish a flagship science center dedicated to education and training for young people in the emerging science and engineering disciplines of the 21st century. "Guided by the pioneering vision and strategy of Governor Andrew Cuomo in harnessing nanotechnology innovation to drive educational excellence and economic development, the NanoCollege is delighted with the addition of the Children's Museum of Science and Technology as a significant resource to provide novel education and workforce training leading to exciting careers," said Dr. Alain E. Kaloyeros, Senior Vice President and CEO of CNSE. "We look forward to building on CMOST's recognition as one of the nation's top 20 science centers to develop a world-renowned hub for 21st century learning and discovery, in what is truly an investment in our young people that will enable them to take advantage of the remarkable educational and career opportunities that await." "It is both a distinct pleasure and wonderful occasion for CMOST to become part of the world-class College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering," said Paul Fahey, Chairperson of the CMOST Board of Trustees. "We are truly fortunate to have such an incredible resource in our own backyard, and privileged with the unique opportunity to become part of this renowned institution. Buoyed by the unmatched intellectual and technological assets of CNSE, we are thrilled that the museum will give children and families a front-row view into this exciting world through development of a world-class science center." "I am thrilled to know that the Children's Museum of Science and Technology will not only move forward, but reach higher under the leadership of the NanoCollege, the Capital Region's preeminent institution for nanotechnology education, training and economic development," said Deborah Onslow, CEO of CMOST. "This is the right opportunity at the right time, and the true beneficiaries will be the young people of this region and state, who will enjoy access to the first-class science center that they truly deserve." The establishment of the CNSE CMOST will support and enhance CMOST's mission to "instill a sense of wonder and discovery in young minds, inspiring a lifelong exploration of science and technology," and is complementary to CNSE's mission to provide pioneering nanotechnology education and prepare New York's future workforce with a comprehensive education of the highest quality. Over the next five years, CNSE expects to invest up to $5 million to transform the CNSE CMOST headquarters and exhibits into a world-renowned science center. The current museum staff of 5 full-time and 9 part-time employees, including CEO Deborah Onslow, will be retained and become part of CNSE's staff. The CMOST Board of Trustees will also remain in place and be supplemented by a number of community, business, and technology leaders, including Mary K. Bayly Skevington, Chair of the Board of Directors of Girls Inc. of the Greater Capital Region; Tom Birdsey, CEO of EYP; Robert Blackman, Vice President of Realty USA; Sandra Fox, Vice President of Technology Operations at CHA; Richard E. Leckerling, Partner of Whiteman Osterman & Hanna LLP; Daniel Pickett, CEO of nfrastructure; and Rick Whitney, CEO of M+W U.S. Inc. CNSE and CMOST have an established history of partnership and collaboration, most recently working together to attract the national Nano exhibit to CMOST. Created by the Nanoscale Informal Science Education (NISE) Network with support from the National Science Foundation (NSF), the exhibit provides a firsthand experience for children and family audiences, introducing them to nanoscience and nanoengineering through a series of engaging, hands-on stations and activities, such as building a giant model of a carbon nanotube. In addition, CNSE and CMOST have long collaborated on a host of ongoing programs and activities, including joint Summer NanoCamps held in both locations; CNSE presentations and displays at CMOST in conjunction with National NanoDays; and CMOST informational exhibits at CNSE's Community Day during its annual celebration of NANOvember. The only science center in New York's Tech Valley designed specifically for kids and parents to "Explore, Discover and Imagine" the world of science together, CMOST was named a top 20 science center by Parents Magazine. Last year, more than 81,000 people visited CMOST, including approximately 60,000 children. UAlbany CNSE