Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania has been named Nonprofit of the Year at the 2026 Centre County Business Awards, presented by the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County (CBICC).

The award recognizes Discovery Space’s ongoing work to engage learners of all ages through hands-on science, technology, and creative exploration, as well as its role in meeting the evolving needs of the community.

At the awards ceremony, Executive Director Michele Crowl reflected on the impact that Discovery Space and The Rivet have on people across the region.

“How much influence can one small science center in State College, Pennsylvania really have?” she asked, sharing examples of students who travel from across Pennsylvania for field trips, a high school student whose research in the Marine Life Center is helping her thrive in college, and a 75-year-old Rivet member who proudly picked up her first finished piece of pottery.

These experiences, she explained, can shape what people believe is possible for themselves.

Just as the tides gradually shape a shoreline, the experiences people have through our programs, exhibits, and workshops can have an impact that extends far beyond a single visit.

Together, Discovery Space and The Rivet create opportunities for people across 26 Pennsylvania counties to explore new interests, develop skills, and discover possibilities they may not have otherwise encountered.

This recognition belongs to the staff, volunteers, board members, donors, partners, members, and visitors who make this work possible. We are grateful to everyone who helps us create opportunities for curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning throughout our community.

In the News

Read more about Discovery Space and the 2026 Centre County Business Awards:

• CBICC Website: 2026 Award Winners
• Centre Daily Times: What was named Centre County’s Business of the Year? See CBICC awards results
• StateCollege.com: CBICC Awards Honor Local Businesses and Leaders. Here Are the Winners