Helping generations experience science

Tom and Kathy Malaske's first experiences with the Science Museum of Minnesota were through a child's eyes. Tom found fascination with a mummy exhibit at age six. Kathy saw the wonder of science as her two young nephews did on a family visit. And that delight with visiting the museum has not faded for the Malaskes over the years.

"Every time we go, we see something different," Tom says. "We can spend hours and hours reading about things like race or how the body works."

A passion for learning is something the Malaskes share. Tom, a retired computer support engineer, makes a beeline for any exhibit involving space or oceanography. Kathy, a retired executive administrative assistant, is fascinated by an interactive exhibit that shows how much blood is in an individual's body.

"The museum is educational and entertaining for any age," Kathy says. "The hands-on exhibits let you play and have fun no matter how old you are."

Making sure SMM can continue to educate all generations and bring them joy is important to the Malaskes. That's why the couple chose to support the museum through a bequest, or a gift in an estate plan.

"With donations like ours and other people's, the museum will continue to be here as part of our lives and the Minnesota legacy," Tom says.

Like Tom and Kathy, you can include the Science Museum of Minnesota in your estate plan to further science education. Contact Jenna Hadley at (612) 444-9204‬ or jhadley@smm.org to learn about your giving options.