CHICAGO, June 12, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sammons® Financial Group Member Companies employees recently participated in the ribbon cutting ceremony for Galileo Scholastic Academy of Math & Science’s (Galileo) new science laboratories. The event marked the completion of construction for the labs, a project that was initiated by a parent-led fundraising group, Friends of Galileo, and supported by Sammons Financial Group, Chicago Public Schools, a private family and the school’s 2017 Reach for the Stars fundraiser. 

Galileo, a public elementary school located in Chicago, was in desperate need of science classrooms for 4-8^th graders. Students were conducting science experiments in traditional classrooms using outdated equipment. The school’s administration recognized the need for labs for these students, and Friends of Galileo decided to take the lead in transforming a classroom into two adjoining science laboratories equipped with modern science learning tools.

When construction for the new labs began in 2017, Sammons Financial Group donated $60,000 towards the project. Furthermore, Sammons Financial Group contributed $14,863 more for lab furniture this year. “At Sammons Financial Group, our decision to support the building of new Galileo science labs was clear,” said Steve Palmitier, president of Sammons Financial Group’s Life Division. “It was a transformational opportunity that would help shape the learning experience for Galileo’s students for years to come.”

“The new labs would not have been possible without the cooperation of Galileo and Chicago Public Schools along with the generosity of our donors,” stated Mike Hrzic, a Galileo parent and member of Friends of Galileo. “Everyone worked together to complete our three-year initiative in just one year,” added Hrzic.

Following the ribbon cutting, students of Galileo immediately began learning in the new rooms. According to Galileo’s principal, Meredith Bawden, “Our students were thrilled to start conducting science experiments in the labs. Students now have the opportunity to engage in hands-on learning experiences in the new labs, which will prepare them for high school and future careers.”

About Sammons® Financial Group, Inc.

The member companies of Sammons® Financial Group, Inc. (SFG), are here to help families and businesses protect their future, so they can enjoy life’s moments today. A subsidiary of Sammons Enterprises, SFG is a group of privately-owned financial companies, including several of the most enduring and stable companies in our industry. SFG’s member companies, Midland National Life Insurance Company^®, North American Company for Life and Health Insurance^®, and Sammons Institutional Group^SM offer some of today’s most sought-after life insurance, annuity, and retirement planning products. Sammons Financial Group: With You for Every Moment^SM.

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312-648-7776

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