A Letter from our Board President

It is an immense privilege to be involved in the mission and impact of North Dakota’s Gateway to Science, and I warmly invite all who read this report to continue their support and involvement, or to visit our organization and learn how to become an involved member. As the State of North Dakota’s only hands-on science center, North Dakota’s Gateway to Science plays a vital role in inspiring and equipping the next generation of scientists and critical thinkers. Our supporters, whether financial or volunteer, make this effort possible. Throughout our 32 year history, we have continued to inspire the scientist within each person we engage with, and we have seen how our vision has transformed lives through our approach of inspiring curiosity, empowering ideas, and supporting innovation.

As President of the Board of Directors, I have had the joy of witnessing firsthand the profound and continuing impact our organization has on learners and curious minds of all ages, and we are grateful to our stakeholders, members, and visitors for continuing to power this outreach and mission. We hope this report showcases the immense value and impact our organization brings to our region. Rest assured, our mission is ongoing—there is so much more to grow, build, discover, and inspire. We look forward to what the future holds, and we thank you for your support and confidence as we continue to blaze a path for curious minds.

Chris Riedman, President
Board of Directors

Read or download the full 2025 Annual Report here.

Year Highlights

• The opening of Outdoor Explorium created a gateway to nature exploration and involved partnerships with MDU Resources, ND Natural Resources Trust, Doosan/Bobcat Engineers, and the NDSU Master Gardeners.
• Gateway to Science on the Go vans logged nearly 24,000 miles, serving over 200 schools and community partners across the state with STEMzones and workshops.
• Our Visitor Guides hosted 150 field trips for students of all ages from local and regional schools, community groups, scout troops, and more.
• Set against the stunning backdrop of the Missouri River, our facility became a memorable venue for 12 weddings and hosted 57 corporate meetings and events. 77 children celebrated their birthdays with us, too!
• We expanded offerings to present a monthly schedule of adults-only programming on a variety of topics, including Chemistry, Mixology, Wine Pairing, Digital Literacy, Saunas & Cold Plunges, and Science Misconceptions.

A Letter from our CEO

North Dakota’s Gateway to Science was founded on a simple but powerful idea: when we work alongside other organizations and individuals, we expand what’s possible. Collaboration allows us to reach more students and families and deepen the impact of every experience we create.

As I look back on 2025, I’m especially proud of the partnerships that helped bring the Outdoor Explorium and pollinator garden to life last summer. Contractors, volunteers, and our own team came together to design, build, plant, and care for this vibrant outdoor space. It’s a place that will continue to grow—literally and figuratively—offering new ways for visitors to explore the natural world.

In many ways, 2025 was truly a year of partnerships. We forged new connections, strengthened existing ones, and continued working with organizations that share our passion for hands-on STEM learning. Our team is innovative, talented, and always seeking collaborators whose strengths complement our own. NDGTS has also become a partner of choice for groups looking to meaningfully engage students and families through interactive STEM experiences.

As we head into the year ahead, I’m excited about the new opportunities these relationships will bring. Together, we’ll continue creating spaces and programs that inspire curiosity, spark discovery, and make science accessible to all. Thank you for being part of this journey—your support and partnership make everything we do possible.

Beth Demke
Chief Executive Officer

Looking Ahead

Investments in new resources during 2026 will open possibilities for exciting experiences in the coming year and beyond. The Digitalis Dome is now available for rural schools through our Gateway to Science on the Go program, and it’s open to our visitors monthly on Thursday evenings.

The Outdoor Explorium continues to be a work in progress with new opportunities to enhance our visitors’ experience. We are looking forward to the addition of Musical Exhibits this spring, sponsored by the Levi and Bethany Andrist family.

EyeClick uses motion-based technology to turn physical movement into playful, immersive learning. Our exhibits team is using this innovative technology to develop custom gallery experiences.

As we grow and strengthen our partnerships in 2026, we’ll open the door to even more opportunities. Our team will reach more students and families, connect with a wider range of ages, and show up in communities we haven’t served before.

Learn more about our Mission, Vision, and Values.

A special thank you to our Corporate and Sustaining Members.