CosmoCamps 40th Anniversary Reunion & Gala: A Milestone Weekend of Celebration and Inspiration
On September 26–27, 2025, the Cosmosphere proudly welcomed more than 200 alumni, families, and supporters for the CosmoCamps 40th Anniversary Reunion & Gala, an unforgettable weekend honoring four decades of world-class STEAM education.
The celebration brought together generations of campers and staff for two days filled with nostalgia, discovery, and connection. Guests enjoyed planetarium showings, hands-on demonstrations in Dr. Goddard’s Lab, special documentary screenings, and a variety of educational activities that showcased the enduring spirit of CosmoCamps.
A major highlight of the weekend was a special panel featuring Dr. Don Thomas, Teresa Sindelar, Steve Hawley, and Eileen Hawley, moderated by CosmoCamps alumnus Sandy Marshall. Their stories, expertise, and personal reflections provided attendees with rare insight into space exploration and the impact of educational programs like CosmoCamps.
The Saturday evening gala served as a fitting culmination to the event. Keynote speaker Andy Talbott reflected on the profound influence CosmoCamps has had on thousands of young people over the past 40 years. During the gala, the Cosmosphere proudly announced its new annual recognition: the Helen Unruh Alumni of the Year Award, named in honor of longtime Cosmosphere team member Helen Unruh. Helen was celebrated with an emotional video tribute, (see here) and honored for her exceptional dedication and contributions and the inaugural award was presented to CosmoCamps alumnus Sandy Marshall.
The 40th Anniversary Reunion & Gala was a resounding success, bringing together the past, present, and future of CosmoCamps. The Cosmosphere extends its sincere gratitude to everyone who joined us for this milestone moment. Here’s to the next chapter of inspiring curiosity, creativity, and exploration for generations to come.
A Tribute to Helen Unruh
What is the CosmosCamps Alumni Association?
The Cosmosphere Camps Alumni Association was created to keep campers engaged with camp, the Cosmosphere, and each other. Whether sharing experiences from space camps, or finding connections after camp in professional or academic settings, we know that Cosmo Camp alumni are already building real-world relationships with each other, so we thought–why not make it official?
The 40th-anniversary of Cosmosphere Camps seemed like the perfect opportunity to bring our past campers and counselors together to celebrate all things Cosmo Camp. Your shared passion for science, exploration and let’s be honest, having fun, is what made camp such a memorable experience for everyone; we can’t wait for you to join us and share everything you’ve been up to since.
So, come along with us as we reconnect, celebrate and look forward to the future of Cosmosphere Camps! Here are two easy and quick steps to help you get started, and keep reading for information about our upcoming 40th-anniversary Gala–you won’t want to miss it!
- Stay in the Loop – Sign up to stay up-to-date on the upcoming 40th-Anniversary Gala and help us reconnect with fellow camp alumni!
- Get Involved – Share your camp experiences and memories, volunteer at or sponsor the 40th-Anniversary Gala, and many more ways to get involved!
Have questions or need more information?
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re a past camper, counselor, or simply have questions about the Alumni Association or the 40th Anniversary event, reach out to us. We’re here to help you reconnect with your Cosmosphere family.
Out-of-This-World Camp Alumni
Send your alumni pictures to alumni@cosmo.org.
Contact us today!
Call Us
620.665.9326 direct
800.397.0330 x326 toll-free