GSLC 30th Anniversary Gala

A Fundraising Concert to Support the Future of Free Science Education and Honor Dr. Louisa Stark

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, [April 6, 2026] — The University of Utah’s Genetic Science Learning Center (GSLC) will host a public fundraising concert on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Libby Gardner Concert Hall to support and expand the free science education resources it provides to millions of students, teachers, and lifelong learners.

The 7 p.m. concert will feature the Utah Medical Orchestra performing original compositions from the Center’s popular multimedia science education materials, along with distinguished speakers and special musical guests. Before the concert, attendees can enjoy a 5 p.m. reception featuring engaging hands-on science experiences and a science art exhibit.

The event will also honor the retirement of longtime director Dr. Louisa Stark, whose leadership helped shape the Center’s far-reaching impact in science education. It will also formally announce the Center’s new name — The Stark Science Learning Center (SSLC) — in recognition of Dr. Stark’s extraordinary contributions to the Center.

Tickets are now available at sslc.utah.edu/gala.

“The legacy of the GSLC—now SSLC—is one of excellence in science education. Tonight we honor SSLC’s 30-year impact on science education and science literacy, as well as honor Dr. Louisa Stark’s extraordinary career. This gala is a tribute to SSLC’s history and an investment in its future. Thank you for joining us in celebrating together.”
-Rachel Hess, MD, System Chief Research Officer & Associate Vice President for Research, University of Utah Health Sciences

Event Details
Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
Location: Libby Gardner Concert Hall, 1375 President’s Circle, Salt Lake City, Utah
Reception: 5 p.m. (hands-on science activities and science art exhibit)
Program: 7 p.m. (concert and speakers)
Admission:
$35 General Admission
$20 Students and ages 18 and under (no children under 5 admitted)
$100–$500 VIP and group seating available
Tickets: sslc.utah.edu/gala

Founded at the University of Utah, the GSLC, recently renamed, Stark Science Learning Center (SSLC), is widely recognized for its commitment to high-quality, research-based science education. Its flagship platform, Learn.Genetics, reaches millions of learners each year and is one of the most widely used resources for teaching science and health in classrooms worldwide. In addition to serving learners worldwide, the Center also provides valuable science communication tools to researchers, clinicians, and partners both at the university and beyond. The event reflects the Center’s distinctive role in advancing public understanding of science while fostering collaboration among educators, scientists, artists, and health professionals.

Media Contact
Kagan Breitenbach
Senior Producer
kagan.breitenbach@utah.edu
(435) 219-9223