AWARD YEAR: 2023

NORTH CAROLINA AQUARIUM SOCIETY, INC.

DIRECTOR: JAMES MULVEY

PROJECT TITLE: A YEAR OF STEM AT THE NORTH CAROLINA AQUARIUMS

A Year of STEM at the North Carolina Aquariums will support diversity and access in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math with out of school learning opportunities across the four NC Aquariums locations, reaching more than 1,200 students annually. A Year of STEM will offer hands-on science activities at least once a month, expand participants understanding of STEM principles and career opportunities, and increase diversity in the participants in Aquarium programs. Through these efforts, we will better serve the youth of coastal NC while expanding the number of diverse youth interested in STEM careers. Encouraging young minds to explore STEM careers will lead to more diversity in STEM fields in the coming years. The NC Aquariums at Fort Fisher, Pine Knoll Shores, and Roanoke Island, and Jennette's Pier in Nags Head have offered dynamic and effective conservation education programming for students for years, reaching millions. These programs offer unique experiences in coastal habitats, feature live animals, serve to educate and inform, and expand youths' perception of careers in science and conservation. A Year of STEM will build upon current educational programs at each of the Aquarium locations, providing access to many students who cannot afford fees. Collectively, these programs provide a full year of hands on, STEM based learning for students outside of the traditional classroom. This project will expand participation and create access for all programs by creating a robust scholarship program, providing opportunities for STEM engagement across our coast. A Year of STEM will support learning in youth from traditionally underrepresented groups in STEM including girls, minorities, persons with disabilities, and economically disadvantaged persons.

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