This year student scientists in Lawrence Hall of Science's East Bay Academy for Young Scientists (EBAYS) conducted research that was reported in local and national media. In one study, EBAYS students discovered unnaturally high levels of nitrates and E.coli in a creek that meanders through residential sections of East Oakland. These results were later presented to city officials as evidence of sewage leakage into the creek that was reported by the media. EBAYS students also discovered extremely high particulate matter concentration levels at an underground BART station. This information was reported by the Huffington Post and shared with BART officials and the union representing BART employees. EBAYS provides under-resourced youth with authentic scientific research experiences that relate to fundamental science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) content. 

This past year more than 400 volunteers—teens, UC Berkeley students, alumni, and others—contributed 19,000 hours of work to the Lawrence Hall of Science's public science center. For adults, teens, and Berkeley students, volunteering provides opportunities to get involved in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. They also gain a deeper understanding of the role of education, as well as an awareness of STEM career opportunities. 

• For the second year in a row, the Lawrence Hall of Science's  24/7 Science website received the highest 5 out of 5 rating from Common Sense Media, the national nonprofit devoted to helping parents and teachers manage media and technology in kids' lives. 24/7 Science was one of the first recipients of the ON for Learning Award in 2013.  24/7 Science is part of an ongoing effort by the Hall to promote effective science education in both the school and the home through a range of exciting new media projects.
• Craig Strang, associate director of the Lawrence Hall of Science, in 2014 was appointed by California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson as the chair of the California Environmental Literacy Task Force, which is charged with creating a Blueprint for Environmental Literacy. Strang served as president of the National Marine Educators Association in 2013.

• The Hall was named "Best Of" by Parents Press website in a number of categories:

GOLD:

• Best Place to Entertain Your Teen (for our Teen Internship Program)
• Best Kids Party Entertainment
• Best Indoor Play Place
• Best Place to Buy Educational Books (for the Discovery Corner Toy & Book Store)

TOP PICK:

• Best Museum
• Best Birthday Party Venue
• Best Academic and Technology Summer Camp
• Best Nature, Animals & Science Summer Camp
• Best Place to Buy New Toys (for the Discovery Corner Toy & Book Store)