THE MUSES of the California Science Center Foundation was founded in 1962 by Mrs. Charles Luckman and the wives of twenty-two members of the California Museum of Science and Industry Foundation Board of Trustees. The founders selected the name THE MUSES as they wished the organization to emulate the nine mythological muses whose purpose was to advance the communication of knowledge through the study of the arts and sciences.

Today THE MUSES raise funds and volunteer in support of select youth educational programs of the California Science Center Foundation.

Hands-On Science Camp

THE MUSES fund scholarships which provide children from low-income families with the opportunity to participate in hands-on science classes taught at the California Science Center over the summer. These week-long courses for grades pre-K through 8 explore topics such as Gizmos and Gadgets, Junkyard Science and Mission to Deep Space.

California State Science Fair

The annual California State Science Fair recognizes the achievements of nearly 1,000 middle and high school science students who win top honors at their county and regional science fairs to qualify for this statewide competition spanning over 20 categories from Aerodynamics to Zoology. THE MUSES contribute essential funding to help underwrite such items as the awards ceremonies and photography. As well, we volunteer time at this two-day event.

Community Youth Programs

Community Youth Programs stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning among underserved local community youth through informal, interactive educational opportunities that develop knowledge in basic science concepts, leadership and life skills and college/workforce preparedness. Community Youth Programs offer three age-specific science enrichment opportunities: Curator Kids Club, Learn to Earn and E-Corps. THE MUSES help fund educational materials, field trips and nutritional breakfasts and snacks for the youth, as well as volunteer their time on special outings and for celebratory events.

Each year THE MUSES present an annual “Woman of the Year” event which honors a woman who has made an outstanding contribution in the field of science, industry or the arts. In 2010 THE MUSES are pleased to honor Patricia Beckman, a passionate philanthropist and dedicated advocate for science education.

The Woman of the Year event is the major fundraising activity that allows THE MUSES to support core educational programs of the California Science Center. This year’s luncheon will be held on Saturday, May 8, 2010 at the Montage Beverly Hills and will include an opportunity drawing for vacations in Italy and Hawaii, a silent auction and a marketplace of boutique items.

Tables with seating for (8) are available for $1,000 and individual tickets for $125 ($55 tax deductible). Please email prtorres617@sbcglobal.net to purchase your luncheon tickets today!

See a list of former honorees.

Join us as a member of THE MUSES and help to enhance youth educational experiences in the fields of science, math and technology at the California Science Center and become part of one of the most interesting volunteer opportunities around. Here we unlock the imagination and inspire the youth of our city, state and nation with the knowledge that science is not only fun, but a part of our daily life. THE MUSES hold monthly meetings from September through June where we plan activities and raise funds for three key programs: Hands-On Science Camp, California State Science Fair and Community Youth Programs.

Membership Requirements

1. Annual dues paid within sixty days from the beginning of the fiscal year (July 1)
2. Membership with the California Science Center, in addition to THE MUSES membership
3. Purchase one ticket, or make an equivalent donation, for the major fundraising event of the year

For more information or to join THE MUSES, please contact Dorothy Juett.

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