Science World is honouring B.C.'s top doctor as its sole 'Friend of the Society' in 2021.
At its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on May 26, Science World announced that Dr. Bonnie Henry has been named this year's ‘Friend of the Society.' Along with this designation were named Patrons of Science World, which is "an honour bestowed by the members of the Society on an individual who has contributed in a significant way to the development of the Society," explains a news release.
The Membership of Science World names an individual a 'Friend of Science World' when they personify the "goals and aspirations of the Society."
And what are those goals and aspirations?
Science World writes that a 'Friend of Science World' is characterized by their "love of science, a dedication to community service and a commitment to the evolution of British Columbia as an international centre of science and technology."
Friends have either contributed significantly to the development of science culture in B.C. through their activities on behalf of Science World or by their life achievements.
“Whilst leading the Province through the most difficult of times during the COVID-19 Pandemic, Dr. Henry supported Science World in a highly impactful way as the iconic face of our The World Needs More Nerds fundraising campaign, featuring her childhood photograph, aged seven,” said Tracy Redies, President & CEO of Science World.
“These campaign images contributed significantly to the successful outreach and fundraising efforts of the campaign and continue to be seen across BC today. As a charity, with less than 2% government funding, all donations go back into inspiring the next generation of STEAM leaders across the Province.”
Patron of Science World
A Patron of Science World is an honour bestowed by the members of the Society on an individual who has contributed in a significant way to the development of the Society. It recognizes that organizations like Science World can only thrive if it is the recipient of the collective contributions of energy, wisdom, time, financial resources and goodwill from the leaders of the community it serves. The Patrons of Science World are examples of this leadership.
The newly-announced patrons include: Peter Brown (Peter & Joanne Brown Foundation); former Science World employee Pauline Finn; philanthropist Lily Lee; and high-profile fundraisers John and Dana Montalbano.
"The World Needs More Nerds" campaign
In 2020, Science World launched the "The World Needs More Nerds" campaign that called on its followers to help raise the funds to keep the geodesic dome's doors open.
As part of the campaign, the iconic science centre used a photo of Henry at age 7.
