WONDR NATION Partners with the Connecticut Science Center to Enhance Wondr Smart Labs for Tribal Youth
Mashantucket, CT (march 5, 2025)
WONDR NATION®, the online gaming and entertainment company owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, today announced the Connecticut Science Center, the LEED Gold-certified destination bridging science with immersive learning, as an official Wondr Smart Labs partner. This initiative reinforces WONDR NATION’s commitment to investing in the future of tribal youth through STEAM-based (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) learning.
Through this partnership, WONDR NATION and the Connecticut Science Center will introduce interactive programs designed to inspire the next generation of tribal leaders. The center will provide curriculum for Wondr Smart Labs, featuring hands-on activities, with many activities customized with Native American cultural elements to bridge the connection between scientific exploration and tribal heritage.
“Our partnership with the Connecticut Science Center extends our mission to equip tribal youth with the tools they need to become future leaders,” said Anika Howard, Chief Executive Officer and President of WONDR NATION. “By integrating advanced STEAM education with cultural heritage, Wondr Smart Labs is creating a dynamic learning environment where innovation and tradition come together.”
In addition to providing curriculum, the Connecticut Science Center will bring immersive programming directly to the Mashantucket Pequot tribal community, including a dedicated family night and a family workshop. These activities will provide opportunities for families to engage in STEAM learning that will encourage continued education and exploration. Wondr Smart Labs program participants can also visit the Connecticut Science Center to immerse themselves in interactive exhibits and scientific discovery.
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation is also a proud sponsor of the Connecticut Science Center’s upcoming, “The Science Behind Pixar,” which opened to the public on March 1, 2025. The exhibit offers visitors an exclusive look into the animation technology and engineering behind some of the world’s most beloved Pixar films.
“Education is one of the most powerful tools we can provide to our youth,” said Rodney Butler, Chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation. “Through this partnership, we are creating opportunities that blend learning with the rich cultural heritage of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation.”
“We are thrilled to partner with the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and WONDR NATION to bring engaging STEAM-based education to the Mashantucket Pequot community,” said Matt Fleury, President & CEO of the Connecticut Science Center. “This collaboration goes beyond science – we’re igniting curiosity and empowering rising generations with the skills and knowledge to thrive in an ever-evolving world.”
Wondr Smart Labs provide immersive STEAM education to tribal youth, blending cutting-edge technology with cultural integration. Through Wondr Smart Labs, tribal youth gain exposure to coding, robotics, engineering, aerodynamics, horticulture and more while incorporating historical traditions. By working alongside the Connecticut Science Center, WONDR NATION is expanding these opportunities to ensure a culturally enriched education for rising generations.
For more information on WONDR NATION, visit wondrnation.com and linkedin.com/company/wondrnation. For more information the Connecticut Science Center, visit CTScienceCenter.org.
About WONDR NATION
WONDR NATION is an online gaming entertainment company focused on partnering with best-in-class gaming platforms and using emerging technologies and trends to create new and exciting experiences for players. Owned by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, equality and diversity are deeply engrained into WONDR NATION’s company makeup as well as its ongoing endeavors. With corporate responsibility and sustainable play serving as key driving forces, WONDR NATION is committed to educating players about maintaining healthy user habits, and developing the next generation of gaming professionals through educational programs, vocational training and employment opportunities.
About the mashantucket pequot tribal nation
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation is a federally recognized Indian tribe located at one of America's oldest Indian reservations, Mashantucket, in Southeastern Connecticut. As pioneers of the Indian Gaming casino industry, the history of the Mashantucket Pequots reveals one of America's greatest come-back stories, featured at the Tribe's world renowned Mashantucket Pequot Museum. Today, the Tribe owns and operates one of the largest Integrated Resort Casino destinations in North America, Foxwoods Resort Casino, along with a variety of complementary businesses including a world-class golf course, luxury spa, Pequot Pharmaceutical Network, and Pequot Plus Health Benefit Services. As one of Connecticut's highest revenue contributors and largest employers, the Mashantucket Pequots have provided the state more than $4 billion in slot revenue through a first-of-its-kind agreement, established in 1993. Likewise, the Tribe has contributed hundreds of millions in donations and sponsorships for the benefit of communities and tribes in need, locally and throughout the U.S.
About the connecticut science center
Located in downtown Hartford, the LEED Gold-certified Connecticut Science Center ignites creativity and fosters a love for science through engaging, hands-on interactive experiences—all while maintaining a commitment to environmental sustainability. With more than 165 hands-on exhibits, the Science Center explores a wide range of topics, including space and earth sciences, biology, the Connecticut River watershed, alternative energy, physical sciences, Connecticut’s inventors and innovations, and more.
Highlights include the state’s year-round butterfly habitat, a dedicated children’s gallery, five educational labs, a 200-seat 3D digital theater, a function room, and a gift store. The Science Center also hosts events for all ages throughout the year.
As a nonprofit organization, the Connecticut Science Center is committed to enhancing science education across Connecticut and New England, providing enriching learning opportunities for students and adults alike.
For more information, visit CTScienceCenter.org or call (860) SCIENCE
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