Today, the iBIO Institute EDUCATE Center kicked off its third annual STEMgirls Summer Camp hosted at Andrew Cooke Magnet Elementary School in Waukegan. This week-long learning experience provides 125 young girls (grades 3-8) with opportunities to learn more about careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through challenging and fun hands-on activities.
Campers will take part in a wide range of activities throughout the week, using engineering and design principles to solve different challenges:
Campers hail primarily from communities where access to STEM programing is limited. STEMgirls is supported by some of Illinois’ leading life sciences companies including Abbott, AbbVie, the Astellas USA Foundation, Horizon Pharma and the VWR Foundation.
“This incredible week of learning and development for young girls interested in STEM wouldn’t be possible without the generous support from our donors,” said Ann Vogel, senior vice president of the iBIO Institute EDUCATE Center. “Their recognition of the growing need for STEM education early-on provides these young girls with an enriching experience that leads to opportunities they otherwise might not have access to.”
At the end of the week, parents of the STEMgirls campers can attend a panel discussion featuring speakers from Abbott and the Astellas USA Foundation to learn more about how they can support their daughters interest in STEM and connect them to various community support organizations.
“The STEMgirls Camp is an amazing opportunity for girls in our district. They are exposed to wonderful new projects and experiences through this program,” said Stephanie Jensen, principal of Andrew Cooke Magnet Elementary School. “The hands-on approach makes the week fun and exciting for the girls.”
About iBIO Institute
The mission of the iBIO Institute, established in 2003 by the Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization (iBIO), is to orchestrate business leadership in delivery of world-class educational programs and job-creating new technology ventures. The Institute’s EDUCATE Center delivers science and math programs for teachers and students, thereby inspiring the next generation of innovators and helping restore America’s leadership in technology education.
To learn more about the iBIO Institute and its programs, visit www.ibioinstitute.com.
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for the iBIO Institute
Emily Hanhart
emily_hanhart@jtpr.com
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(312) 573-5468
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