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Science Service

Science Service is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, DC. Founded in 1921 by newspaper magnate E.W. Scripps, its mission is to promote understanding and appreciation of science among the American public.

Through publications and programs, science fairs and scholarship competitions, the organization helps young people use and strengthen their knowledge in science, math and engineering. Many professional scientists credit these experiences as a major factor in their decision to pursue a scientific career.

  • During the 1920s, Science Service began publishing the Science Newsletter, a first-of-its-kind weekly science news magazine for the general public with accurate scientific news, ideas and findings explained in clear terms.
  • In the 1930s and 1940s, Science Service extended its reach through the "Radio News of the Week," a successful spin-off of the Science Newsletter.
  • In March 1966, the Science Newsletter. became Science News. To this day, Science News' editorial content, advertising and reader services remain focused on high-quality scientific journalism with a minimum of nonscientific distractions.
  • In 1942, Science Service and Westinghouse created the Science Talent Search (STS), America's oldest and most highly regarded science competition for high school seniors. It has become an American institution. In 1999, The Intel Corporation assumed sponsorship of the competition.
  • In six decades, the STS has recognized almost 3,000 finalists with $4 million in scholarships. Alumni of the STS include holders of more than 100 of the world's most coveted science and math honors - including five Nobel Laureates, three National Medal of Science winners and nine MacArthur Foundation fellows.
  • Science Service also administers the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), the world's only international science competition for students in grades 9 to 12. The winners of some 500 science fairs in all 50 states and 40 other countries compete annually in the ISEF. The Intel Corporation became the title sponsor of this event in 1999.
  • Beginning in 1999, Science Service partnered with Discovery Communications, Inc., to launch a new science tradition, the Discovery Young Scientist Challenge. This national science competition celebrates the abilities and accomplishments of science fair winners in fifth through eighth grades.
  • Most recently, Science Service received the National Science Board's Third Annual Public Service Award. This award honors individuals and organizations that have increased the public's understanding of science and engineering.

     

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