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At Texas A&M University we are pursuing development of a hands–on science center called ExplorationStation. It differs significantly from traditional science centers in that it is being designed as an integral part of the University. As such, it provides an intimate and powerful mix of research with teaching and enables us to take advantage of tremendous symbiotic advantages that have previously not been exploited. Briefly, some of the benefits include: (1) A faculty salary endowment that, on a continuous basis, relieves approximately 20 top research faculty of normal classroom teaching duties. Instead, these research faculty (from across all disciplines in the university) will interact with ExplorationStation visitors providing explanations and providing input into the design of hands-on exhibits that showcase their cutting edge research efforts. (2) ExplorationStation endowed chairs will make it possible to have a frequent presence in the exhibit galleries of internationally renowned scientists/scholars to interact with visitors. (3) A large body of technically very competent undergraduate and graduate students is readily available to hire and train as “Explainers” in the exhibit galleries and for an extensive outreach programs to K-12 students throughout Texas and neighboring states. These “Explainers” are not only hired to provide a service, but will themselves learn by teaching and will gain expertise in communicating science to the public. (4) ExplorationStation will be a great asset for the recruitment of both graduate and undergraduate students. Since it significantly enhances the cultural environment it will also positively impact the recruitment of new faculty. Other advantages will also be discussed.