Chaminade University of Honolulu recently received a $10,000 grant from ABC Stores to fund its “I Am a Scientist” (IAS) Mobile STEM Outreach Program. The program provides hands-on science modules for elementary schools in Hawai’i to create equal access to quality science education and to introduce STEM skills to young students.
Chaminade’s IAS program is operated by practicing research scientists who bring professional science equipment and supplies to local schools. Topics covered include health science, biology, forensic science, and environmental science. The program is meant to instill a lifelong interest in science starting at an early age. Since the COVID shut down, IAS has been offered via Instagram and new distance learning protocols are being put into place.
“We’re extremely grateful to ABC Stores for this generous grant that will allow us to continue offering our ‘I Am a Scientist’ program free to Hawaii DOE schools,” said Chaminade President Dr. Lynn Babington. “The program offers grade-level science experiments to only inspire the scientists of tomorrow but also teach them valuable lessons.”
A broader initiative of the Chaminade’s Division of Natural Sciences & Mathematics, the “I Am a Scientist” program also hosts community events throughout the year and invites schools to Chaminade’s campus so students gain an understanding of an undergraduate science student’s experience.
For more information on Chaminade’s “I Am a Scientist” program, visit iamascientiststem.org.
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Chaminade University of Honolulu provides a collaborative and innovative learning environment that prepares graduate and undergraduate students for life, service and successful careers. Established in 1955, the university is guided by its Catholic, Marianist and liberal arts educational traditions, which include a commitment to serving the Native Hawaiian population. Chaminade offers an inclusive setting where students, faculty and staff collectively pursue a more just and peaceful society. For more information, visit chaminade.edu.