The Impact of Generosity: Celebrating the Archimedes Society’s Legacy

At McWane Science Center, our mission is simple yet powerful: to spark wonder and curiosity about our world through hands-on science experiences. And behind the scenes, there’s a dedicated group of supporters who help make that mission possible—the Archimedes Society.

The Archimedes Society is made up of McWane’s most loyal advocates—individuals who give $5,000 or more annually to support our work. Their generosity fuels everything from exhibit upgrades to educational outreach, and their belief in the power of informal STEM education allows us to reach thousands of curious minds each year.

A Grateful Reunion

In the Fall of 2024, members of the Archimedes Society were invited back to McWane Science Center for the first time since the global pandemic. At the luncheon, donors from 2020 to 2024 were honored for stepping up immensely during an unpredictable time. These individual donors truly “Helped Keep McWane Afloat” and we could not be more grateful. Donors were updated on all the exciting happenings that McWane have developed through the Master Plan including upgrades to exhibits and the facility. One Archimedes family in particular took special interest in the Basilosaurus—Alabama’s state fossil—and generously decided to fund the entire project! The 40-million-year-old, more than 60-foot-long, toothed whale cast will be hung in the Grand Lobby ready to greet everyone that enters the museum. This instance shows just how important and impactful the Archimedes Society is to McWane Science Center. We anticipate the Basilosaurus to be unveiled in late summer of this year.

Coming Soon: Diamondback Terrapin Nursery

And that’s not all—this fall, McWane will launch a Diamondback Terrapin Nursery in partnership with UAB! The nursery will care for hatchling terrapins, giving them a safer start before being released back into their natural habitats. We’re planning a special unveiling for Archimedes Society members and friends in September of this year—stay tuned for details.

Save the Date: November 6, 2025

Looking ahead, be sure to mark your calendars for our 2025 Archimedes Society Gathering on November 6th. We can’t wait to celebrate with you again and share even more milestones made possible by your support.

For more information about The Archimedes Society, email [email protected]. To become an Archimedes level donor, visit our Donate page or call (205) 714-8359.