When COSI opened its doors on March 29, 1964, thousands of guests were greeted by what would come to be COSI’s hallmark entry experience: a Foucalt Pendulum.
Today, this iconic Pendulum remains front-and-center at COSI. Walk in our front doors, and there it is: steady and reliable. As guests of all ages pause to ponder its intriguing swing, it is the first scientific encounter of a day at COSI. It is iconic. It is beloved. And it has helped measure each and every day of COSI’s growth across five incredible decades of service to Central Ohio.
The Pendulum Society
Formally established in 2018, COSI’s Pendulum Society recognizes individuals who have advised us of their plans to give a future gift to COSI through an estate plan. It is an important way for us to thank a group of visionary individuals who— through their own unique stories, histories, and connections with our organization— share a common dedication to COSI and provide a special form of support.
These individuals have chosen to make planned gifts that ensure COSI’s long-term success and sustainability. The Pendulum Society is an extraordinary group of forward-thinking COSI supporters who care about the future of science education and literacy— donors who are partners in COSI’s mission, making critical investments in our efforts to engage, inspire, and transform lives and communities.
When you decide to include COSI in your estate plan, you make a lasting impact by providing transformational educational opportunities for generations to come. You help create thoughtful, long term change.
Join Today
Just as scientific knowledge always builds on what came before, COSI’s continuing success and future innovation relies on the steady support of those who care the most about our mission today. Pendulum Society members honor COSI’s rich, 55-year history and believe in its bold vision for the future— helping ensure the long-term economic sustainability of COSI as we grow and transform into a next generation science center.
We invite you to become a member of the Pendulum Society by donating to COSI through your charitable estate plans. We are pleased to extend special invitations to exclusive COSI events and private tours to Pendulum Society members.
Please contact Abby Poklar, Vice President of Philanthropy and Institutional Alignment, at 614.629.3161 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you would like to discuss becoming a member.