We, the undersigned, call on Drexel University to keep the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia’s public-facing museum open beyond September 2026 and to work with the Philadelphia community to find a sustainable path forward.

Drexel University recently announced plans to permanently close the Academy’s public-facing museum at the end of September 2026. We believe Philadelphia cannot afford to lose this vital institution.

For generations of Philadelphians, the Academy has provided invaluable opportunities to learn, explore, and build lasting connections to the natural world—both its history and the living world around us. It has also helped cultivate the next generation of scientists, educators, conservationists, and environmental stewards. Programs such as Women in Natural Sciences, a free science enrichment program for girls, create pathways for young people to engage with science and envision themselves as part of its future. Speaker series and public programs bring people of all ages together with experts, stories, and new perspectives on the natural world.

The Academy is more important than ever at a time when we face accelerating threats to the health of our environment amidst the erosion of public trust in science. The museum provides an essential space where people can engage with science, discover the natural world, and better understand the environmental challenges facing our communities. Closing it to the public would mean losing an irreplaceable resource for education, discovery, and connection.

We urge Drexel University to:

1. Keep the Academy of Natural Sciences museum open to the public beyond September 2026.

2. Engage transparently with Philadelphia residents, scientists, educators, students, museum members, and community organizations about the Academy’s future.

3. Explore all viable alternatives to permanent public closure.

4. Recognize the Academy’s importance as a public scientific, educational, cultural, and community institution.

The Academy of Natural Sciences is part of Philadelphia’s history and identity. We ask Drexel University to ensure that it remains a part of Philadelphia’s future.

Philadelphia cannot afford to lose the Academy of Natural Sciences.

Keep the Academy open.