Each year, the Connecticut Science Center celebrates the achievements of professionals, groups, advocates, businesses, students, and leaders who share our mission to inspire lifelong learning through interactive and innovative experiences that explore our changing world through science. The Gala Committee selects STEM Achievement Award honorees based on their overall contributions to STEM in the region, their efforts to open STEM Careers to diverse audiences, and their impact on STEM Education in the community.

The Petit Family Foundation Women in Science Leadership Awards recognize a professional woman and a student who are leaders in their chosen STEM field. The honorees are selected by the Women in Science Steering Committee based on their demonstrated commitment to advancing STEM through thoughtful engagement with diverse audiences and their significant efforts to support other women and girls in their pursuit of STEM as learners, teachers, and professionals.