Saban Center Partnership Enhances Water Education in Alabama

In an exciting development for education and environmental science, the Saban Center has joined forces with the Alabama Water Institute (AWI) at The University of Alabama. This new collaboration aims to elevate water literacy and STEM education across the state with the introduction of the groundbreaking "Science On a Sphere" exhibit.

Science On a Sphere, developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), uses a sophisticated projection system to visualize planetary data such as hurricanes and ocean temperatures on a large spherical screen. This engaging technology offers an immersive way to explore complex environmental processes and data.

Audrey Buck, director of the Saban Center, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "Collaborating with AWI to integrate this innovative technology aligns perfectly with our goal of providing an advanced STEM learning experience for students and educators."

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The Alabama Water Institute will lend the Science On a Sphere system to the Saban Center and assist in creating educational content. Edward Clark, director of NOAA’s National Water Center, highlighted the exhibit’s impact: "Science On a Sphere brings environmental data to life, offering a compelling way to understand the interconnectedness of global and local water issues."

Matt Womble, executive director of AWI, emphasized the significance of the partnership, noting, "Collaborating with the Saban Center and featuring Science On a Sphere as a central educational tool is a thrilling development. We are grateful to UA alumni Mark and Ann Hickman for their generous donation, which made this project possible."

The Hickmans, known for their commitment to educational initiatives in West Alabama, believe the interactive nature of Science On a Sphere will greatly benefit modern learners. Ann Hickman, a retired kindergarten teacher, remarked on the transformative potential of the exhibit, while Mark Hickman emphasized the importance of early childhood education in fostering future community leaders.

This partnership marks a significant step forward in enhancing STEM education and water literacy throughout Alabama.