Discovering the Wonders of Science: A Family-Friendly Expedition at the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Morgridge Institute

On April 6, families from various locations in Madison gathered to explore the diverse world of science at the Discovery Expo, hosted by the Morgridge Institute as part of Science Expeditions. Science Expeditions is a three-day-long open house event that takes place across the UW-Madison campus, showcasing scientists and their research from different departments on campus.

The Morgridge Community Engagement Team put together over 40 interactive and exciting booths for the event, providing families with hands-on activities such as cow eye dissections and learning about shipwrecks on the Great Lakes. Educational presentations were given from a variety of fields in science, sparking curiosity and inspiring future scientists. The Discovery Expo ended with a lively science show featuring UW chemistry professor Bassam Shakhashiri, along with a surprise appearance from Bucky Badger.

Community engagement is an essential aspect of the Morgridge Institute’s mission, as it aims to foster scientific curiosity and serve society in partnership with the university. This year, Science Expeditions helped celebrate 175 years of UW-Madison and its accomplishments in education, innovation, and community impact.

To see highlights from the Science Expeditions Discovery Expo, check out the video above.