2024 was a year of exceptional transformation for the Reading Science Center, but it was only a glimpse of the exciting changes to come in 2025!

We launched our first Celebrate Science Day with our partners at Drexel University College of Medicine in April 2024, brought in new exhibits thanks to a move by The Da Vinci Science Center, and received a newly built exhibit from our friends at Carpenter Technology in September. The Reading Science Center museum floor is practically a new 7,000 square foot space from a year ago.

We have changed our open hours - no longer open on Tuesdays - but rather Mondays and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm; last entry at 3pm.  This allows us to better serve families by being open on school holidays and in-service days.

A new feature on the third Monday of each month will be “Science Storytime.”  Included with the price of admission, at 10:30 a.m. our Museum Assistant, Microscope Meg, will read a science related book, then follow the reading with a themed hands-on activity.  So cool!  Come for the story and stay for the whole day.

And finally in 2025, what so many of you have been waiting for…..Reading Science Camp!  The week of July 28th to August 1st will be packed with science fun from 9am to 1pm right here at the Reading Science Center.  We will accept only 25 children, ages 8 to 11, so put the dates on your calendar and look for more details shortly.  

Throughout this newsletter, you will read about ways you can be part of the excitement! You'll find our full 2025 calendar of events, learning programs, plans for the Celebrate Science Day sequel (May the Force Be With You!), our Members-Only Party on February 16th, and so much more.

If you know someone who would like to follow our news, please forward this newsletter to them and encourage them to sign up at this link:

If you are a funder and would like to know more about how to support our work, please contact me directly at ralia.vardaxis@rdgsci.org. I would be pleased to discuss how to become a partner!

Scientifically yours,

“Rocket” Ralia Vardaxis 
Executive Director
Reading Science Center

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A field trip to the Reading Science Center is an incredible opportunity to bring science to life for your students! Thanks to the generous support of the Neag Foundation, you can book a field trip to the Reading Science Center for just $10 per student.

Our science exhibits and interactive programs are thoughtfully designed to align with school curricula and ignite curiosity. By engaging students in immersive experiments and encouraging critical thinking, we create an unforgettable learning experience for all ages.

DURING YOUR 2-HOUR VISIT, STUDENTS WILL TAKE PART IN:

Our programs bring science to life by immersing students in the process of investigation, fostering curiosity, and providing them with the tools to explore and understand the world around them. This isn’t just a field trip—it’s an inspiring and dynamic learning experience they’ll never forget!

READY TO BOOK?

February is our most available month for field trips. Limited openings also exist in March and April—so book early to secure your spot during these busy spring months! We’re excited to welcome you and your students for a day of curiosity and fun!

QUESTIONS?

Our programming team is ready to help you plan the perfect field trip experience and answer any questions! Email sarah.troy@rdgsci.org.

Get ready for a day of discovery and fun as the Reading Science Center invites you to our second annual Celebrate Science Day! The event is set to occur on May 4, 2025, from 1 PM to 5 PM at the Drexel University College of Medicine campus in Wyomissing.

STAR WARS fans will know that the date of May 4th lends itself to the theme “May the Force Be with You!” Our take is a tribute to the scientific concept of force and its impact on shaping our understanding of the world.

JOIN US FOR: 

Last year’s Celebrate Science Day was a huge success, and this year we’re raising the bar even higher! This exciting event is your chance to dive into the wonders of science with over 20 activities like things to build, animals to pet, rockets to pop and so much more! Bring your family, friends, and curiosity to experience Celebrate Science Day! 

CALLING ALL SCIENCE PARTNERS!

Are you interested in inspiring the next generation of scientists? Contact Ralia to join us as a science presenter and showcase your activities at this year’s event.

Stay tuned for more details—we can’t wait to see you there!

Looking for a fresh way to spark curiosity and excitement this summer? The Reading Science Center offers Group Visits—an engaging experience designed for summer camps, summer schools, church groups, scouts, and community organizations.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

SCHEDULING DETAILS

A membership to the Reading Science Center is the ultimate gift of exploration, offering a full year of learning and excitement—including an exclusive members-only party packed with fun surprises and activities!

MEMBERSHIP LEVELS & PRICING

Family Membership - $100 Per Year

Unlimited admission for 5 individuals for one year.

Individual Membership - $40 Per Year

Unlimited admission for 1 person for one year.

MEMBERSHIP PERKS

Starting January 1, 2025, the Reading Science Center is open with new hours: You can now visit us on Mondays and Saturdays from 10 AM to 4 PM! Whether you're planning a weekend outing or looking for a fun way to kick off your week, we’re here to spark curiosity and exploration. 

Additionally, on the third Monday of every month, join us for Science Storytime from 10:30 - 11:30 AM! This program is included with admission ($10 per person, under 2 free) on these select Mondays and includes an exciting investigation in the classroom after the story.

Looking for a unique and exciting way to celebrate your child’s birthday? Host your special day with us at the Reading Science Center! We offer an unforgettable experience that your guests will talk about long after the party is over.

BIRTHDAY PARTY PACKAGE

Celebrate on Saturdays during Museum hours (10 AM to 4 PM)!

Package Price: $360 for up to 20 guests (includes children and adults)

Additional Guests: $10 per person for groups over 20 guests

WHAT’S INCLUDED

We’re thrilled to announce that the Reading Science Center has been selected as Riverfront Federal Credit Union’s 2025 First Quarter Community Partner! This exciting collaboration highlights our mission of fostering a love of science through hands-on STEM education while supporting our efforts to make a lasting impact in the greater Reading community.

Every quarter, Riverfront FCU selects a non-profit organization to spotlight and support. Funds raised from swag sales—such as coffee mugs and t-shirts—along with transaction round-up donations, are contributed to the partner organization. These gifts not only provide critical funding but also help amplify the organization’s message of positivity and hope in the community.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Support the Reading Science Center by shopping at any Riverfront branch! Your purchase of branded items directly benefits our programs, helping us provide engaging STEM opportunities for youth in Berks County.

We’re excited to introduce Megan-Alyse Bereit, our new Museum Assistant at the Reading Science Center! Originally from Latrobe, PA, just outside of Pittsburgh, Megan-Alyse has a diverse background that blends education, history, and design. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Public History and Museum Studies, along with a certification in UX/UI Research and Design from Avocademy.

Currently, she is also completing an apprenticeship as a Junior UX Designer. Before joining the Reading Science Center team, Megan-Alyse worked as a Preschool Teacher for 2.5 years and started as a Docent here in July 2024. With a passion for STEM from a young age, Megan-Alyse is a proud Bill Nye fangirl and a devoted Lego enthusiast. We’re thrilled to have her on board and look forward to the creativity and energy she brings to our team!

In this newsletter, we’re proud to share a video created by our intern, Angela Caldero-Perez, as part of a school project at Reading Area Community College. Through heartfelt interviews with community leaders, Angela and her team sought to shed light on Reading's vibrant, resilient spirit, challenging the common stereotypes and fostering a deeper understanding of the city’s people and culture.

Featuring insight from our founder, Jim Cinelli, among others, the project is a testament to the impact of storytelling in changing perceptions and driving social change.

Senior Manager

RKL

Reading Science Center Treasurer of the Board

Nathan is a Senior Manager in RKL's Tax Services Group, where he brings a decade of expertise in tax planning, compliance, and business advising for a variety of industries, including manufacturing, real estate development, and retail. A Certified Public Accountant and active member of professional organizations such as PICPA and AICPA, Nathan combines technical expertise with a commitment to fostering local connections. He joined the Reading Science Center Board to help make an impact in the local community, believing its mission is vital to our youth and future leaders. He lives in Denver, PA, with his wife, Addy, and their dog, Ollie.

Executive Vice President

Customers Bank

Reading Science Center Board Member

As Executive Vice President at Customers Bank and Director of Commercial and Community Banking, Tim brings over 40 years of experience in commercial banking within the Greater Reading and Berks County community. His deep roots in the area and dedication to fostering community partnerships reflect his commitment to making a positive impact. Tim and his wife, Tara, are proud parents of three children and grandparents to four, and he values the importance of investing in opportunities that inspire and educate future generations.

Head of Operations and Site Lead

LABCORP Inc.

Reading Science Center Board Member

With over 20 years of experience at LABCORP, Stephanie brings unparalleled expertise in operations management, preclinical development, and immunology. Her passion for science inspired her to join the Reading Science Center Board. Stephanie believed the Center engages a love for science in an interactive and engaging way, bringing STEM awareness and education to the community. Her combined expertise in science and business equips her to bring valuable insights to the Board and contribute to the Center’s continued success. 

Field Service Operations Manager

EnerSys

Reading Science Center Vice President of the Board

Corinne brings a wealth of expertise in innovative program development, community engagement, and sustainable initiatives. As a leader in EnerSys' Women in Leadership committee and an advocate for mentorship and professional growth, Corinne is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections and driving positive change within her field and the community. Joining the Reading Science Center Board allows her to support initiatives that empower future generations with the tools and knowledge that will change the world.