Carnegie Science Center Renamed Following $65 Million Donation

PITTSBURGH, PA — Rest in peace, Carnegie Science Center. The popular center, one of four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, is being renamed after receiving a $65 million donation.

Say hello to the Daniel and Carole Kamin Science Center.

“This is the largest monetary gift in the history of Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh—the largest, that is, since the original contribution of our founder Andrew Carnegie,” Steven Knapp, president and CEO of Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, said.

“Dan and Carole have been generous supporters of our museums for many years, and with this unprecedented gift they are further establishing their legacy as true leaders in Pittsburgh’s philanthropic community. Their forward-looking generosity will establish a firm foundation for the Science Center as it expands its capacity to inform and inspire its audiences within and beyond our region.”

Daniel Kamin, a Pittsburgh-based commercial real estate entrepreneur, traces his personal dedication to science to childhood visits to Buhl Planetarium and Institute of Popular Science, the precursor to Carnegie Science Center. The Buhl Planetarium was renamed Carnegie Science Center and opened to the public in its current location in 1991.

“I vividly recall crafting my own telescope during many inspired visits to The Buhl, so I have a great appreciation for the role the Science Center plays in educating and inspiring our young people,” Daniel Kamin said.

“The Science Center is a vital contributor to the economic vitality of the Pittsburgh region and a great partner to our schools and science-based businesses. Carole and I were inspired by the future vision presented by the Science Center’s leadership, and we felt compelled to support it in a meaningful way.”