OMSI Unveils New Natural Sciences Hall, Inspiring Hope and Action for Climate Resilience.
Climate of Change/Clima de Cambio invites us to ask: what can we cultivate together?
Media Contact: Amanda Rain
arain@omsi.edu | P: 503-797-4510
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
[PORTLAND, OR –April 14, 2026] – The Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) announces the opening of the Nancy Stueber Natural Sciences Hall featuring Climate of Change / Clima de Cambio, a new permanent exhibition that explores the relationship between people and the environment. Grounded in stories from communities across Oregon, the exhibition highlights resilience, collaboration and innovation in the face of climate change.
“We’re proud to officially open the Nancy Stueber Natural Sciences Hall at OMSI,” said Erin Graham, OMSI’s President and CEO. “This highly interactive space is designed to inspire curiosity and empower the next generation of changemakers, encouraging visitors to take informed action, and contribute to solving current and future climate challenges.”
The Hall is named in honor ofOMSI’s former President and CEO, who led the organization for 38 years, including 20 years as president. A visionary leader and steadfast community partner, Stueber’s legacy is reflected in this transformative space. The Hall was made possible by many generous contributions from individuals, foundations, corporations, and public agencies.
“Climate of Change / Clima de Cambio reflects the adaptability and collective strength of the Pacific Northwest,” said Akiko Minaga, OMSI’s Vice President of Learning Experiences. “It weaves together climate science, industry partner insights, and the lived experience and expertise of our local communities to create a powerful, place-based learning experience.”
OMSI is grateful to recognize Portland General Electric’s support for this project, honoring our organizations’ long history of partnership, which started with PGE’s donation of the property for the organization’s Water Avenue facility in 1989. PGE is the energy sponsor for the Nancy Stueber Natural Sciences Hall through 2030 and the Hall features PGE in a co-developed interactive exhibit focused on clean energy in our region.
“Through our partnership with OMSI and the support of the PGE Foundation, we’re proud to help young Oregonians see how the energy system works and the role they can play in shaping a resilient, clean energy future,” said Maria Pope, president and CEO of Portland General Electric. “We’re excited to see this space inspire the next generation to take action on climate challenges.”
The Hall is the culmination of five years of collaboration with more than 15 regional community partners working on innovative climate solutions. Adelante Mujeres, Albina Vision Trust, Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, the High Desert Partnership, Our Future Oregon, South Slough Reserve, and Portland-area Indigenous community leaders all contributed to and showcase stories of community action featured within the exhibition. Additionally, NAYA youth identified how to improve the iconic Science on a Sphere experience, and a group of Latine community members conducted a survey on climate change opinions and visitor-tested exhibit prototypes.
Highlights of the new Hall include:
- A striking entrance sculpture made from reclaimed yellow cedar mass-timber construction in partnership with Timberlab;
- An immersive multimedia experience developed by Tellart exploring the interconnectedness of people and the natural world;
- A story theater featuring short films about communities leading place-based solutions to climate change;
- A reimagined Science on a Sphere® installation featuring new content;
- Murals by local artists Darren Todd and Lettie Jane Renekamp on themes of community and connection;
- And many other interactive, hands-on elements and learning modules.
“Our community has always understood that caring for the land means caring for one another. At Adelante Mujeres, we educate and empower Latine farmers and families who lead with both innovation and tradition. Growing food in ways that honor the earth. Reducing emissions. Nourishing our communities,” said Bridget Cooke, Adelante Mujeres Co-Founder and Executive Director. “We’re proud to be included in this exhibit that uplifts powerful, community-driven solutions. It reminds us all that the path forward is rooted in connection, culture, and collective action.”
“This exhibition invites visitors to deepen their connection to place, think more expansively about our changing landscapes, and recognize their own capacity for action,” shared Ciera Iveson, OMSI’s Creative Director. “From the immersive elements to tangible solutions, we center the idea of ‘active hope.’ Through our hands-on experiences, we hope visitors leave informed and inspired.”
“Oregon is a hub for innovation and forward thinking solutions,” added Graham. “OMSI, with its enduring commitment to curiosity, belonging, and bold imagination, is proud to be part of that story,” said Graham. “We’re excited to share this extraordinary experience with our community and visitors from around the world. We hope it empowers future generations to shape what comes next.”
The Nancy Stueber Natural Sciences Hall featuring Climate of Change / Clima de Cambio is OMSI’s new permanent gallery. Learn more here.
Opportunities for interviews on April 24. Press Previews available before 2 PM.
Interviews possible with:
- Erin Graham, OMSI President and CEO
- Ciera Iveson, OMSI Creative Director
- Akiko Minaga, OMSI Vice President of Learning Experience
VIP Opening with dignitaries and congressional leaders April 24, 4-6:30 PM, remarks at 5 PM. Interviews available with speakers.
Press images and attributions can be found here.
Tickets & Pricing
Museum Admission, including access to Climate of Change / Clima de Cambio: Adult $22.50, Youth (ages 3-13) $15.50, Senior (age 63+) $20.50. Prices subject to change, visit our webpage for updates.
The exhibit is free for OMSI Members. Learn more about membership at omsi.edu/membership.
Museum Hours of Operation
Tuesday–Friday & Sunday: 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Saturday: 9:30 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
Monday: Closed select Mondays from mid-April to mid-June
About OMSI
Founded in 1944, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) is one of the nation’s leading science museums and a trusted educational resource for communities throughout Oregon and the region. Through museum exhibitions, public programs, traveling exhibitions, and digital learning, OMSI nourishes a lifelong love of science, curiosity, and learning among its diverse audiences. The upcoming OMSI District will be a one-of-a-kind neighborhood with innovation, culture, and science learning at its heart. For general information, call 503.797.4000 or visit omsi.edu. Connect with the museum on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
###