A Vision That Sparked a Movement

Frank Koch was the founding scientist of North Dakota’s Gateway to Science. He dreamed of something extraordinary: a welcoming “gateway to science” where curiosity could flourish, and people of all ages could discover the wonder of learning through hands-on, joyful exploration.

That bold vision, ignited in the early 1990s, came to life in 1994 with the opening of North Dakota’s very first hands-on science center.

A Legacy That Continues to Grow

Nearly three decades later, Frank’s dream has grown beyond what he could have imagined with the opening of North Dakota’s Gateway to Science—a state-of-the-art facility that has expanded our reach, deepened our mission, and transformed our impact.

Although Frank was not physically present to witness this milestone, his spirit lives on in every spark of curiosity we ignite.

On May 14, we honored Frank’s lasting legacy in informal STEM education by planting a tree in the Outdoor Explorium—a tribute to the roots he planted and the future he inspired.

A Living Tribute

Frank was a woodcarver, and his favorite medium was the American Linden tree. The City of Bismarck selected a Green Spire Linden, a smaller variety that better fits the space.

Visit the Outdoor Explorium

When you visit the science center, you’ll see the tree at the center of the Outdoor Explorium, which offers hands-on ways to explore science, nature, and discovery—just as Frank envisioned.

Plan your visit and see how curiosity continues to grow.