In 1986, The Franklin Institute, America's oldest science museum, was experiencing attendance and financial problems. Andes, who had previously served on its board, agreed to become its full-time CEO and chairman on a pro bono basis, and he promptly launched the $70 million "Futures Center" expansion program for the institute. Largely through his efforts the necessary funding was raised and the Futures Center was completed in the spring of 1990. Attendance increased from 500,000 to over a million annually, and the Futures Center received outstanding reviews from around the world. Andes also initiated the Bower Awards at The Franklin Institute, which are considered by many to be America's most prestigious awards for achievements in science.