Museum of Discovery and Science Honored With National Medal for Museum and Library Service in 2023

Only eight institutions in the nation were recognized for serving their communities.

Over the summer, the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) honored the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) in Fort Lauderdale with the prestigious 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service at the White House in Washington, DC. First Lady Dr. Jill Biden and IMLS Director Crosby Kemper presented the medal, recognizing museums and libraries’ exceptional service to their communities. This award is the highest honor given by the nation to such institutions.

MODS was among the eight institutions honored with the 2023 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, selected from 30 national finalists. These institutions are recognized for exceeding expected service levels through their dynamic programming and community outreach, making a difference in individuals’ lives and helping communities thrive. The award has celebrated such institutions for the past 29 years.

MODS, originally founded as the Discovery Center in 1976, has emerged as a pioneer in science education, innovation and exploration. The museum’s mission is to connect people with inspiring science, and in doing so, MODS emphasizes the importance of STEM, impacting the lives of over 450,000 visitors annually. The museum embraces six core values: Discovery through inquiry-based learning experiences; Inclusivity, where equity and access are crucial to success; Collaboration in pursuit of mission-based public and private partnerships; Creativity, where inspiration and innovation take flight; Education as an inspirational force for informal science; and Visitor Focus, fostering a welcoming atmosphere with layers of learning. 

The IMLS’s national recognition is significant as it underscores the role MODS has played not just regionally but as a national leader in the museum field and a model for community engagement and social impact.

Photo caption: First Lady Dr. Jill Biden; Joseph P. Cox, president and CEO of MODS; Phillip Dunlap, Director of Broward County Cultural Division; Crosby Kemper, IMLS Director

Photos courtesy of IMLS/Photos by Shannon Finney

You May Also Like
Notary Tops the List of Florida’s Dream Jobs 

Notary work surges in Florida as real estate dominates nationwide.

Read More
La Boulangerie Boul’Mich Celebrates Its New Kendall Location

Bringing its signature Latin-European flavors to Kendall, the beloved bakery and café marks the occasion with a grand opening celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 2025.

Read More
CityPlace Doral Debuts Three New Retailers 

CityPlace Doral welcomes Escapology, OAKBERRY and Petricor.

Read More
Escapology, OAKBERRY, and Petricor have recently opened at CityPlace Doral.
The Best States for a Fresh Start in The U.S.

Cost of living, job opportunities, and quality of life impacted Florida’s ranking.

Read More
Cost of living, job opportunities, and quality of life impacted Florida's ranking.
Other Posts
Back at the Helm: Let’s Do This!

What’s old is new again.

Read More
Gary Press
Fiorucci Joins Winterfest for Joyful Holiday Celebration

Celebrate the event with family and friends.

Read More
Winterfest
Editor’s Letter: Seasonal Relief Is On the Way

The rebirth of Pier Sixty-Six Resort and Marina will pay dividends to the local economy.

Read More
Kevin Gale
David Posnack Jewish Community Center and Sam Berman Charitable Foundation Partner to Launch Overlap Program

The two-year initiative aims to combat hate and discover common ground through culture and community.

Read More
Jewish Community Center