griffin360’s Post

Baldwin Wallace University received nearly $780,000 in grant funding through the Ohio Department of Higher Education to support scholarships for incoming transfer students starting Fall 2025 through the BW Choose Ohio First STEM Scholars Program! Our journey with the BW STEM Scholars program, which I've been proud to be part of since 2008 under the visionary leadership of Stephanie Forstner, Jacqueline Morris, and Jim McCargar, has been nothing short of remarkable. The initial grant I came in under, which concluded in the spring 2024, demonstrated the incredible potential of supporting transfer students in STEM disciplines. The numbers tell a powerful story: out of 43 transfer students, 32 completed their STEM degrees (74%), with 87% employed in STEM fields in Ohio or pursuing advanced degrees. When the opportunity for renewed COF funding arose, Jim McCargar (our grant PI) and I were convinced that focusing on transfer students was the most impactful path forward. Our strategic focus on partnerships with Cuyahoga Community College and Lorain County Community College has yielded success stories that showcase the real-world impact of our program. Here are a few: Bethany Thomas PA-C, the first transfer student I connected with, is now making a difference as a Physician Assistant at The MetroHealth System (Cleveland, OH) System in Cleveland. Ryan Reffner, who not only excelled academically but also mentored numerous students, is currently a 2nd-year Chemistry PhD candidate at McGill University. Heather Reber seamlessly transitioned from a lab technician to a Scientist role at Thermo Fisher Scientific, demonstrating the career development growth our program facilitates. Nikki V. at Veracyte, Inc. discovered her passion for analytics through her biology degree, exemplifying how we nurture multi-disciplinary skills. givaughna garrett and Kellie Bischoff advanced in healthcare as MSN graduates from Case Western Reserve University's prestigious nursing program; both currently work in healthcare for University Hospitals and Cleveland Clinic. Christina Chukri began her research at Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute as an undergraduate and now works there as a Research Coordinator. We are profoundly grateful to the Ohio Department of Higher Education for their ongoing investment in our students across 2-year and 4-year institutions. These funds do more than reduce financial barriers—they provide high-quality STEM instruction and holistic support that enables students to achieve their academic, career, and personal goals. Special recognition goes to Hallie Vavrus and Selasi Segbedzie, graduate students in our BW Leadership in Higher Education program. Their resources as well as transfer-specific programming and coaching are laying the groundwork for our next cohort of transfer students. A heartfelt thanks to Joyce DeGirolamo for her wonderful article that highlights Baldwin Wallace's unwavering commitment to transfer student success!

What do STEM and creatives have in common? A lot more than you think! A science and technology research company that founded a STEM High School has redefined STEM as Strategies To Engage Minds. After 25 years in the STEM school business, they recognized there’s more to innovative thinking. Artists and creatives employ strategies that engage minds every day. Let's adopt this new “STEM” definition to emphasize further how fundamental the arts are to all industries. If you agree, show your support by liking this post! #STEM #Arts #artsadvocacy #creativesector #artsentrepreneurs

I recently had an intelligent conversation with someone from a STEM background who thought studying arts and culture was useless. They believed we should focus more on the future and practical skills. But this made me reflect on the true value of the arts. Like Rodin's "The Thinker," which symbolizes deep contemplation, arts encourage us to think critically about our past and present. They offer insights into historical events and societal changes, helping us understand why the world is the way it is today. This understanding is crucial, not just for looking back but for building a more empathetic and thoughtful society as we move forward. What are your thoughts? Is there still room for arts and culture in our education system alongside the push for STEM?

I sooooo appreciative of this thoughtful review of my book!

I sooooo appreciative of this thoughtful review of my book!

𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐅𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐎𝐅 𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐊𝐈𝐌𝐄𝐑 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐎𝐍𝐄𝐈𝐃𝐀 𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐓𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃𝐒 $𝟏𝟓,𝟎𝟎𝟎 𝐓𝐎 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐉𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐅𝐈𝐁𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐂𝐂𝐈 𝐅𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐎 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓 𝐋𝐎𝐂𝐀𝐋 𝐒𝐓𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐒 The The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties (CFHOC) awarded a $15,000 check to the The Project Fibonacci Foundation, Inc. (PFF) during its recent round of equity grant awards. This funding will be instrumental in financially supporting local underserved and underrepresented students to attend the 6th Annual STEAM Leadership Conference, which will take place August 4-10, 2024, at Griffiss Park in Rome, NY. The equity grant round is a critical component of the Community Foundation’s long-term strategy to address the fundamental causes of systemic racism and socioeconomic inequity impacting historically marginalized populations within Herkimer and Oneida counties. This initiative underscores the Foundation’s commitment to fostering equitable opportunities for all community members, particularly those who have been historically underserved. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐚 𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐏𝐅𝐅 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐧𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐀𝐌 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐃𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐑𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞. This latest grant will enable PFF to continue its mission of making STEAM leadership education accessible to students regardless of their financial background with a focus on nontraditional STEM individuals to expand the STEM workforce. 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧! 👏 To read the full article from the Sentinel Media Company click the link below. https://lnkd.in/gMX8E8CA For more information on tax-deductible contributions, contact the Project Fibonacci® Foundation at info@projectfibonacci.org. #ProjectFibonacci #science #technology #engineering #arts #mathematics #thankyou #support #community #steameducation

For the final week of our STEM series, we’re highlighting Mathematics—a field that has underpinned technological advancements and driven innovation across industries.    This week, we honor the legacy of Dr. Ruth Gonzalez, a trailblazer who became the first U.S.-born Hispanic woman to earn a Ph.D. in applied mathematics. Throughout her career, Ruth held impactful research roles, including her groundbreaking work in seismic imaging at Exxon, where she developed advanced tools for exploring subsurface structures.    Her contributions extended far beyond her professional achievements. Ruth was a passionate advocate for diversity in STEM, dedicating her time to inspiring and mentoring minority girls and women to pursue careers in math and science.    From her roots in Houston to her leadership in academia and industry, Ruth Gonzalez exemplified the transformative power of mathematics and the lasting impact of representation in STEM. Her legacy continues to inspire future generations.    Learn more about her remarkable legacy https://lnkd.in/eCkAMPPa.   

Did you know the National Science Foundation has found that women make up only 21% of engineering majors, 19% of computer science majors and 3% of STEM industry CEO’s? What’s more, minority women make up only 1.6% of engineering majors, 3% of computer science majors and 14.1% of STEM bachelor's degrees. That is why STEM for Her works to address these inequities by serving and empowering girls and young women in the DC Metro Area, particularly those representing historically underserved populations. We work hard to ensure that at least 65% of the students attending STEM for Her Day come from a Title 1, low-income school. Sponsor one of these students' attendance now to this transformational day of exciting programming, intimate discussion, competitions, networking, and more. Click here to sponsor a student: https://ow.ly/vXzo50U34jA

🌟 Anyone working in STEM related sectors - Join the Movement: Follow STEM Alliance Aotearoa ✅ 🌟 Are you passionate about the future of STEM education in New Zealand? Whether you're an educator, industry professional, or simply a curious mind, STEM Alliance Aotearoa is your go-to source for all things STEM. 🔬 Why Follow? 1. Stay Informed: Get the latest updates on STEM initiatives, events, and opportunities across New Zealand. 2. Connect: Network with like-minded industry professionals, educators, and innovators dedicated to advancing STEM education. 3. Inspire: Discover success stories and best practices that are transforming STEM learning and engagement. Here is one way we provide value👍 “The event was well run, it was invaluable being able to speak directly with the educators who share their challenges around lack of resourcing in their classrooms. This really highlighted gaps for us (from the industry) of where the need is and how we can be intentional to help support schools and the teachers.” – Industry professional 👉 Be Part of the Change! Follow our page today and help us create a thriving community committed to inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders. 🔗 [Follow STEM Alliance Aotearoa on LinkedIn] 👇 #STEMEducation #STEMAllianceAotearoa #Inspiration #Innovation #Education #NewZealand

🌟 Empowering the Next Generation of Innovators! 🌟 “When I grow up, I want to build things.” “When I grow up, I want to fly in space.” 🚀✨ When do children’s dreams start to fade, and how can we support them in pursuing their aspirations, especially in STEM careers? In the U.S., too many students are underprepared, underrepresented, and overlooked in STEM fields. Our latest article presents a case study on how an informal STEM education program in Philadelphia is changing that narrative. University City Science Center’s FirstHand program leverages cross-sector collaborations to provide high-quality, engaging learning experiences for students from underserved schools. FirstHand offers free, multi-week STEM programming for middle and high school students, fostering deep partnerships with schools and STEM professionals. These authentic, mentored learning experiences give students the support they need to explore and plan for a STEM-focused future. 📚🔬 Learn how FirstHand’s collaborative model is making a sustained impact and how it can be implemented in other regions to inspire more young minds. 🚀 Read the full article now! 👉