DETROIT, Jan. 27, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Demonstrating its support of educational institutions across Michigan, the DTE Energy Foundation has pledged to donate $1 million to the Michigan Science Center (MiSci). The donation will span a five-year period starting in 2014, and assist MiSci to achieve its vision of inspiring Michigan families with hands-on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

The Foundation's backing of MiSci is a testament to the organization's commitment to the communities it serves. DTE is dedicated to addressing local residents' needs and providing support to local partners, including leading cultural institutions, in the areas of education, diversity and human needs, among others.

"Contributions such as this are vital to sustaining the Michigan Science Center and its educational impact on the community; it's truly an investment in Michigan's youth," said Dr. Tonya Matthews, president and CEO of the Michigan Science Center. "We cannot thank the DTE Energy Foundation enough for its generous donation and continued support of our mission to bring STEM to life for children and their families."

In addition to this recent contribution, the Foundation committed $250,000 in 2012 to support the reopening of MiSci. Furthermore, the DTE Energy Sparks Theater, a fun, live demonstration area of the museum, was made possible by a grant and in-kind support from the Foundation.

"The science center is an educational gem that attracts and inspires thousands of Southeastern Michigan families every year," said Fred Shell, chair of the DTE Energy Foundation and vice president of DTE Energy's Corporate and Government Affairs group.  "The Foundation's contribution is part of DTE Energy's broader support of STEM education initiatives preparing the future workforce of our state."   

About The Michigan Science Center

The Michigan Science Center is a hands-on museum that inspires children and their families to discover, explore and appreciate science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The Science Center features five theaters, including Michigan's largest screen at the Chrysler IMAX® Dome Theatre; the Dassault Systemes Planetarium; the Toyota Engineering Theater; the DTE Energy Sparks Theater; the Chrysler Science Stage; a 9,800 square-foot Science Hall for traveling exhibits; hands-on exhibit galleries focusing on space, life and physical science; Kidstown just for pint-size scientists; and education and outreach programs.

For more information, please call 313.577.8400 or visit the website, http://www.michigansciencecenter.org.

About DTE Energy Foundation

The DTE Energy Foundation is the philanthropic arm of DTE Energy (NYSE : DTE ), continuing the legacy of community support and involvement of its electric and natural gas utilities. http://www.dteenergy.com/foundation.

SOURCE Michigan Science Center