DSU Partnering with Washington Pavilion to Develop Interactive STEM Experiences for Children

The Washington Pavilion is partnering with Dakota State University and MarketBeat to renovate and reimagine what will now be known as the Space & Technology Floor of the Kirby Science Discovery Center. The partnership will fund new, modern exhibits as well as ongoing programming focused on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art and math). 

Darrin Smith the President and CEO of Washington Pavilion Management says the strategic partnership between the three organizations—a private non-profit, a private for-profit and a public university—is the first of its kind in the community. He says they are so grateful for the support of Dakota State University, a world-wide leader in cyber security education, and MarketBeat, the Dakotas’ largest digital media company, as they work together to inspire young people to love science and technology.

With this investment, the current “Space: An Out-of-this-World Experience” exhibit will be transformed. The partnership also will provide opportunities to engage DSU students and faculty in the creative and design process and exhibit fabrication, as well as hands-on interaction with youth through on-site educational programming. 

 Dr. José-Marie Griffiths, President of Dakota State University says Dakota State University is excited to join MarketBeat in sponsoring the Space & Technology Floor of the Kirby Science Discovery Center at the Washington Pavilion.  She sees this dynamic partnership as an investment in the technology-forward future of South Dakota through the development of interactive STEM educational experiences for families and individuals.

 The goal is to create hands-on opportunities for children to explore space and technology in new and exciting ways. While the recently announced immersive water experience nearby will be a draw for the youngest visitors, this new Space & Technology Floor will be an interactive adventure for elementary and middle-school-aged guests to learn about new developments in space exploration and engage with cutting-edge technology. 

 The total investment between the two sponsors is $375,000. Work will begin this year on the design of the exhibits, and installation will take place in 2024.