Howard Johnson, a life science teacher at the Charleroi Area Middle School, recognized the need for an ecosystem learning center on school grounds to enhance his classroom teaching.

Over a 10-year period, Johnson sought funding to develop a bio-network complex, which included a pond, gazebo classroom, greenhouse, and composting center. His hard work paid off.

In addition to providing real-life hands-on experiences for his students, Johnson was named a 2013 Carnegie Science Award recipient in the Middle Level Educator category this year.

“I feel a sense of accomplishment and pride in my profession,” he said. “It validates my efforts, approach and philosophy in providing a meaningful educational experience to my middle school students.”

Johnson is among 32 awardees to be honored during a formal celebration at Carnegie Music Hall on Friday, May 3, 2013.

The Carnegie Science Awards honors awardees from more than 15 categories, including Corporate Innovation, Emerging Female Scientist, Entrepreneur, Environmental, Leadership in STEM Education and others. These individuals and companies have distinguished themselves by making unparalleled contributions to science and technology in various disciplines. Three student winners will be selected at CarnegieScienceCenter’s 74th annual Pittsburgh Regional Science and Engineering Fair.

The annual event, sponsored by Eaton Corporation, includes a strolling dinner, silent auction and an awards presentation.

“The Carnegie Science Awards spotlight some of the most innovative minds today,” said Ron Baillie, Henry Buhl, Jr., Co-Director of Carnegie Science Center. “These individuals are making a global impact starting with our own region. We know they are already inspiring a new generation of leaders. ”

CarnegieScienceCenter established the Carnegie Science Awards program in 1997 to recognize and promote outstanding science and technology achievements in western Pennsylvania. Celebrating its 17^th year, the Carnegie Science Awards have honored the accomplishments of more than 300 individuals and organizations that have improved lives through their commitment and contributions in science and technology.

“One of our central missions is to promote education in science, technology, engineering, and math – or STEM. The Carnegie Science Awards winners exemplify the highest levels of success in STEM fields and in STEM education,” said Ann Metzger, Henry Buhl, Jr., Co-Director of the ScienceCenter.

This year, the prestigious Chairman’s Award of the 2013 Carnegie Science Awards will go to three presidents of national academies who have roots in the region: Dr. Ralph Cicerone, president of the National Academy of Sciences; Dr. Charles Vest, president of the National Academy of Engineering; and Dr. Harvey Fineberg, president of the Institute of Medicine.

Dr. Cicerone will be accepting the award on behalf of all three recipients at the ceremony in May.

“The Chairman’s Award is not given every year, but only when we feel there is genuinely exceptional accomplishment that must be recognized,” said Rich Holder, President, Electrical Components for Eaton Corporation’s Electrical Sector. “Drs. Cicerone, Fineberg, and Vest have clearly attained that extraordinary level of pre-eminence. Eaton is proud to honor them through our sponsorship of the Carnegie Science Awards.”

Drs. Fineberg and Vest both have fond memories of visiting Buhl Planetarium – the Science Center’s predecessor – in their youth, and it was part of the inspiration that led them to careers in science.

Proceeds from the Carnegie Science Awards help to fund STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) programs at the ScienceCenter with the goal of igniting scientific curiosity in young people and broadening their perspective about careers in the fields of science and technology.

The Science Center launched the Chevron Center for STEM Education and Career Development in 2011, backed by strong financial support from Chevron and founding partners California University of Pennsylvania, Duquesne Light, Eaton Corporation, Kennametal Foundation, LANXESS Corporation, NOVA Chemicals, and PPG Industries Foundation. The Chevron STEMCenter seeks to sharpen the focus of existing programs and approach them in a more concerted way. Built on collaboration and a committed community, the STEMCenter convenes various STEM stakeholders to coordinate efforts for the greatest impact.