This report describes the origin and development of CESAME (The Center for Science and Mathematics Education) at Stony Brook University. The analysis identifies key ingredients in areas of personnel, funding, organizational structures, educational priorities, collaboration, and institutionalization. After a discussion of relevant issues in American education, the report explores the Center's priorities, including: (1) Outreach offering educational and research experiences for school teachers and students; (2) Science and mathematics teaching, leadership, and professional development: (3) Programs providing Ph.D. and MAT degrees in science education; (4) Research opportunities, scholarships, fellowships and funding at all educational levels; (5) Support for faculty in the development of new curricula and courses; (6) Partnerships and networking within and beyond the university; and (7) Research in science and mathematics education. Activities are evaluated and presented in ways that can be used as guidelines for replication. The report concludes with a discussion of critical success factors and the future of the organization.