16-05-2025
Ohio University Lancaster hosts STEM Discovery Day
LANCASTER - Ohio University Lancaster hosted STEM Discovery Day and welcomed more than 350 students from 21 Central Ohio area schools, along with 36 teachers and 30 science and technology professionals to campus on May 9.
This dynamic, hands-on experience was designed to spark curiosity and demonstrate the real-world impact of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), according to the press release.
There was a keynote presentation by a representative from COSI, the Center of Science and Industry.
'STEM Discovery Day was all about igniting curiosity and showing middle school students, that science, technology, engineering, and math are not just subjects—they're pathways to solving future real-world challenges,' said Dr. Pamela Kaylor, professor of instruction in Communication Studies and STEM Discovery Day co-chair in the release. 'Through hands-on activities, we're helping them envision themselves as future innovators. This event wouldn't be possible without the dedication and creativity of our incredible organizing team, many science professionals who served as presenters, our generous sponsors, and dedicated volunteers—whose passion for STEM education is making a lasting impact on the next generation.'
Dr. Jacqueline Tudor, co-chair of the event, joined Kaylor in thanking the educators, planning committee, and sponsors who made the day possible. Major sponsors included Cirba Solutions, Fairfield County Foundation, Mid West Fabricating, Julie D. Messerly DDS, OhioHealth, Fairfield Medical Center, Niagara Water, and Cristy's Pizza.
The event received high praise from Ohio Chancellor Mike Duffey, who attended and visited multiple sessions.
'What I witnessed today was exactly what we need all Ohio's colleges and K-12 schools to be doing together,' said Duffey. 'Young students' eyes were lighting up, they were waving hands in the air and having fun learning about STEM, liquid nitrogen, and energy. The COSI kickoff was so much fun, and I was able to observe students diving deeper in the sessions afterward. On behalf of the State of Ohio, I extend my thanks to Ohio University for being such a great community partner.'
Kaylor emphasized the long-term impact of the event. 'Our approach is evidence-based. In our 40+ years of organizing STEM events, a great many of the young participants have grown up to have amazing careers in STEM—and are now presenters themselves.'
This article originally appeared on Lancaster Eagle-Gazette: More than 300 students experience STEM Discovery Day at OUL
