Investment includes sponsorship of all early learning initiatives at MOSH, naming rights for MOSH 2.0’s Research Vessel/Maker Space and the launch of PNC Bank Preschool Days Program

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., July 23, 2020 — The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) today announced that PNC Bank has committed $500,000 to the MOSH 2.0 capital campaign. The Museum announced the launch of its MOSH 2.0 campaign in March 2019 with the goal of raising $20 million in community support from individuals, businesses and corporations, foundations and other community stakeholders.

PNC will be recognized as the title sponsor of all early learning initiatives at MOSH, presenting sponsor of the new Preschool Days Program, and the naming rights sponsor of the MOSH Research Vessel/Maker Space, which will be featured in MOSH 2.0 plans.

“Ninety percent of a child’s brain develops by age five, which is why PNC believes it’s critical to invest early in a child’s future,” said Brian Bucher, PNC regional president for the southeast Port Cities. “At MOSH 2.0, the early learning center will be a stimulating, interactive and fun exhibit, perfect for little ones to flourish. We’re thankful for MOSH’s innovative and inclusive thinking about pre-k education, because when children are given the tools to thrive, their future becomes even brighter.”

Additionally, PNC has pledged to invest in educational resources for First Coast families through an agreement with WJCT Public Media. Together, they will develop a series of videos showcasing MOSH and PNC early learning activities that will introduce science concepts for children ages birth to 5. Videos will air on WJCT and be housed on WJCT & MOSH websites and social media.

The sponsorship of early learning initiatives at MOSH ties in nicely with PNC’s signature philanthropic program, PNC Grow Up Great.  A bilingual $500 million, multi-year initiative of the PNC Foundation that helps prepare children from birth to age 5 for success in school and life.

Extensive research indicates that the return on investment in high-quality early education and school-readiness initiatives are significant and long lasting – positively impacting children, society and the health of the economy for generations to come.

Research also shows that children who participate in high-quality preschool programs are far more likely to experience greater educational achievements, strive toward higher vocational aspirations and contribute to society later in life.

“Our mission is to inspire the joy of lifelong learning for Northeast Florida residents and guests of all ages, and we welcome PNC Bank as our colleague and ally in ensuring that starts at an early age with dynamic programming for our youngest guests and their caretakers,” said Maria Hane, MOSH president. “We are grateful to PNC for their investment in our vision to expand the Museum’s campus and capacity, starting with early education programs that will bring an immediate benefit to the community.”

About MOSH:

The Museum of Science & History (MOSH) is located at 1025 Museum Circle near Friendship Park. MOSH, first chartered in 1941, inspires the joy of lifelong learning by bringing to life the sciences and regional history. Admission is $15 for adults; $12 for youth, students, active and retired military and seniors. There is no admission fee for children 2 and under or Museum members. Learn more at themosh.org.

Museum funding is provided in part by the City of Jacksonville and the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, Inc.; the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, and the Florida Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts; Historic Museums Grants-in-Aid Program assistance provided by the Bureau of Historical Museums, Division of Historical Resources, Florida Department of State, Secretary of State.

About PNC Bank:

PNC Bank, National Association, is a member of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. (NYSE: PNC). PNC is one of the largest diversified financial services institutions in the United States, organized around its customers and communities for strong relationships and local delivery of retail and business banking including a full range of lending products; specialized services for corporations and government entities, including corporate banking, real estate finance and asset-based lending; wealth management and asset management. For information about PNC, visit www.pnc.com.