http://stemap.utah.edu/blog/ University of Utah Blog en-us Sun, 08 Mar 2026 05:03:43 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss OmniUpdate (OU Publish) https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/patricia-girardi-stemcap.php I recently had the pleasure of attending a seminar given by Dr. Nalini Nadkarni, Professor Emeritus of Biology at the University of Utah. She spoke about her career-long mission to weave a tapestry grounded in ecology—one that tells stories of disturbance and recovery while crossing disciplines and communities. Part of this work culminated in the launch of the STEM Community Alliance Program (STEMCAP), which brings STEM programming to youth in custody and connects them with scientists, artists, and community educators. As a newly designated STEM Ambassador collaborating with STEMCAP, I was scheduled to present my research on plant–bacteria interactions to students at the Slate Canyon Youth Center (SCYC) just two days after her talk. These students are justice-impacted youth (aged ~14-20) participating in an educational program designed to provide structure, support, and opportunities for growth during custody. Feeling a little starstruck, I asked Dr. Nadkarni if she had any last-minute advice. Her response was simple: humanize yourself. Show them that you are a person as well as a scientist. Patricia Girardi, Graduate Student, University of Utah, School of Biological Sciences Tue, 06 Jan 2026 19:25:32 +0000 Reflections Patricia Girardi Shares the Magic of Plants, Bacteria, and Dinosaurs with Justice-Impacted Youth Patricia Girardi with her dog, surrounded by trees Patricia Girardi with her dog, surrounded by trees https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/patricia-girardi-stemcap.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/gloria-ortiz-reserve.php My STEM Ambassador project is taking place in the Corredor Ecológico del Noreste (CEN) Reserve in Luquillo, Puerto Rico, a protected coastal ecosystem co-managed by the community-based organization Coalición para la Protección del CEN and the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DRNA). The Coalition, established in 2005, plays a key role in conservation, education, and community engagement. I have collaborated with this group in the past and continue to work with them through my postdoctoral research within the Reserve. This ongoing relationship has allowed me to observe their essential work in protecting the area and educating visitors. The Reserve receives both local and international tourists, yet it lacks interpretive guides or materials that help visitors understand and appreciate what they are experiencing. Gloria M Ortiz Ramirez, Postdoctoral Researcher, University of Puerto Rico – Río Piedras Campus and Interamerican University of Puerto Rico-Metro Campus Tue, 11 Nov 2025 08:11:19 +0000 Reflections Dr. Gloria Ortiz Ramirez Enhances Education and Appreciation for a Puerto Rican Nature Reserve Gloria Ortiz with companions in the forest Gloria Ortiz with companions in the forest https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/gloria-ortiz-reserve.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/summer2025newsletter.php 2025 is another packed year for STEMAP! STEMAP Mon, 15 Sep 2025 18:18:55 +0000 Newsletter Summer 2025 Newsletter ARIS Summit 2025 ARIS Summit 2025 https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/summer2025newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/caleychargualafchamoru.php My focal group was Faneyåkan Sinipok, an elementary CHamoru language immersion program. The group consisted of around 25 students ranging from kindergarten through 5th grade. In this program, students are taught all the usual subjects, but completely in the CHamoru language, along with an emphasis on place-based education. The project title was An Gaige Giya Inalåhan, which translates to When In Inalåhan. The southern village of Inalåhan holds various key sites that display the island’s beautiful landscapes and portray it’s rich history and culture – making it an ideal venue for this group. Caley Chargualaf, Project Associate, University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability and Sea Grant Island Conservation Lab Mon, 15 Sep 2025 17:50:58 +0000 Reflections Caley Chargualaf Headshot of Caley Chargualaf Headshot of Caley Chargualaf https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/caleychargualafchamoru.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/cyrilconcepcionstemsaturday.php As a civil engineering student from Guam, I’ve always seen engineering as more than formulas and blueprints, it’s about solving real problems that affect our island home. This spring, I had the opportunity to lead a community STEM workshop as part of the STEMAP program, where I introduced middle school students to the world of civil engineering in an interactive and culturally relevant way. Cyril Concepcion, Undergraduate Student, University of Guam School of Engineering Mon, 15 Sep 2025 17:27:57 +0000 Reflections Cyril Concepcion Shakes Things Up with Locally-Relevant Engineering Activities for Guam Students Headshot of Cyril Concepcion Headshot of Cyril Concepcion https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/cyrilconcepcionstemsaturday.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/marissabornnnanababy.php Some of my earliest memories are tied to the ocean. From snorkeling with my family, to watching turtles graze on seagrass in St. Thomas. Those experiences shaped my love of the sea, which followed me to college, where I pursued a degree in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology and conducted my senior thesis research on the behavior of invasive lionfish in the Caribbean. This summer, I had the chance to bring that research home to Nana Baby Children’s Home. Marissa Bornn, Conservation Technician, Coral World Ocean and Reef Initiative Mon, 15 Sep 2025 17:13:17 +0000 Reflections Marissa Bornn Brings Ocean Science to Foster Kids of All Ages Headshot of Marissa Bornn Headshot of Marissa Bornn https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/marissabornnnanababy.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/erin_hollander_usvi_joe.php The United States Virgin Islands (USVI) are widely known for its expansive and beautiful beaches and colorful marine life. However, while the island’s draw is the marine environment and largely depends on this influx of tourism to stay afloat, many USVI locals cannot swim and are not water safe. No discrete statistic is available on the locals’ swimming ability, but Howard Forbes, the director of the Virgin Islands Marine Advisory Service, estimates an upwards of 70% of locals do not identify as being water safe. This is likely attributed to cultural, economic, and infrastructure barriers, something that the University of the Virgin Islands is hoping to change. Erin Hollander, Coral Ecology Technician, University of the Virgin Islands Wed, 30 Jul 2025 22:05:32 +0000 Reflections Erin Hollander Dives into Ocean Ecology and Art with Local Youth on USVI Erin Hollander in SCUBA gear in the ocean Erin Hollander in SCUBA gear in the ocean https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/erin_hollander_usvi_joe.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/alyssa-higham-swsie.php I never expected that my graduate studies would allow me to play a role in a regional sustainability initiative. Yet, as an inaugural graduate research assistant for the Southwest Sustainability Innovation Engine (SWSIE, the Engine), I had the opportunity to apply my passion for environmental resilience on a much larger scale. Through my graduate program at the University of Utah, I became part of a collaborative partnership spanning Utah, Arizona, and Nevada, funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). SWSIE is tackling some of the most pressing climate challenges in the Southwest – aridification, water conservation, renewable energy, and air quality – all while promoting economic and workforce development and sustainable tech innovations (https://swsie.asu.edu/). Fri, 23 May 2025 21:50:41 +0000 Reflections Alyssa Higham Fosters Regional Sustainability in Collaboration with SWSIE Alyssa Higham Alyssa Higham https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/alyssa-higham-swsie.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/emily-mertz-project-managers.php The field of project management has increasingly shifted towards a focus on value creation, recognizing that long-term success depends not only on meeting traditional project objectives—such as scope, time, and cost—but also on delivering broader value. Sustainability has emerged as a key component of this value, with an emphasis on minimizing environmental impact, fostering social responsibility, and ensuring economic viability. Project managers are expected to balance financial performance with the ability to create lasting positive value for multiple stakeholders, including the environment and future generations. This evolution in project management underscores the need for a more holistic approach that integrates sustainability into every phase of the project lifecycle, from planning to execution and evaluation. Fri, 23 May 2025 08:59:09 +0000 Reflections Emily Mertz Communicates Value of Sustainable Skills to Project Managers Emily Mertz Emily Mertz https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/emily-mertz-project-managers.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/jbt-interpretive-el-verde.php On Thursday, November 14, 2024, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., a group of 14 tenth-grade students from Fajardo Academy, Puerto Rico, visited the El Verde field station for an interactive experience through the forest. The main goal of this activity was to learn about the station's history, explore various research projects and their interconnections, and reflect on the importance of ecosystems. John Bithorn Torrens Tue, 03 Dec 2024 19:13:52 +0000 Reflections John Bithorn Torrens Leads an Interpretive Visit to El Verde Field Station John Bithorn Torrens headshot John Bithorn Torrens headshot https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/jbt-interpretive-el-verde.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/emmanuel-ngwoke-camp-sprague.php Mark Walport states, “Science is not finished until it is communicated.” It is not enough to identify a problem and research the solution for the identified problem; researchers are expected to raise the next generation of scientists and bridge the wide gap in scientific knowledge between scientists and non-scientists through public engagements. To contribute towards the goal of bringing science to a non-technical audience, I had the opportunity to volunteer at the Camp Sprague social event held at Salt Lake City Public Library, Sprague Branch, in early fall. This event drew participants from all ages. I was very excited to share my science using relatable materials to illustrate the various biological processes I explore in my research. Mon, 02 Dec 2024 17:39:16 +0000 Emmanuel Ngwoke Illuminates Mechanisms of Huntington's at Camp Sprague https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/emmanuel-ngwoke-camp-sprague.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/aventuras-de-conservacion.php Para la Naturaleza es una unidad del Fideicomiso de Conservación de Puerto Rico dedicado a la conservación de espacios con alto valor ecológico de las islas de Puerto Rico. Por más de 50 años la organización sin fines de lucro ha educado e impactado a través de experiencias educativas, voluntarias y de ciencia ciudadana a diversos públicos y audiencias de diferentes edades, intereses y trasfondos académicos. Fri, 20 Sep 2024 18:00:17 +0000 Reflections|Navigating Home Aventuras de Conservación Para Niños y Niñas con Mariel Santiago Mariel Santiago Mariel Santiago https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/aventuras-de-conservacion.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/serena-barasi-service-guam.php Growing up in Guam, we are always surrounded by nature–whether picnicking with family by the beach, hiking with friends on a Saturday, or admiring the sunset views from a favorite restaurant in Tumon. Yet, despite this constant immersion in nature, our environmental science classes rarely include locally relevant examples. In middle school and biology classes, I learned scientific concepts through examples from various states in the U.S., but it was not until taking an Environmental Biology course that I encountered biology through locally relevant examples. Fri, 20 Sep 2024 17:00:17 +0000 Reflections|Navigating Home Serena Barasi Encourages Community Science with Guam Youth Serena Barasi Serena Barasi https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/serena-barasi-service-guam.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/samuel-gittens-jr-coral.php Before the STEM Ambassador Program, my skills were mostly tailored to field work capabilities which would include scuba diving, mainly coral disease treatment since it is currently the work that I am doing; although I have not had much engagement in sharing my knowledge or information on the work that I do to the community. Through the STEM Ambassador Program, I was able to gain designing, immersion, and engaging skills in order to create my own engagement activity for the community. Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:00:17 +0000 Reflections|Navigating Home Samuel Gittens Jr Talks Coral with the Youth Ocean Explorers Samuel Gittens Jr Samuel Gittens Jr https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/samuel-gittens-jr-coral.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/sablan-green-micronesia.php The Yap States in Micronesia, an archipelago in the western Pacific Ocean, is renowned for its vibrant community and cultural heritage. For this engagement activity, the focal group consisted of elementary school teachers from across the Yap States. The workshop was held at the Yap Department of Education (DOE) in partnership with the University of Guam. Fri, 30 Aug 2024 23:59:17 +0000 Reflections|Navigating Home Zena Sablan and Jackysha Green Lead a Teacher Education Workshop in Micronesia Zena Sablan and Jackysha Green Zena Sablan and Jackysha Green https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/sablan-green-micronesia.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/travis-seamons-outreach.php When I discovered the field of synthetic biology and a lab to work in my first year of college, I thought I was the luckiest person alive. I couldn’t believe that I could participate in building new knowledge. Fri, 30 Aug 2024 22:59:17 +0000 Reflections Travis Seamons Collaborates with the Tracy Aviary and Fourth Street Clinic for Youth Outreach Travis Seamons Travis Seamons https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/travis-seamons-outreach.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/edlyn-jusino-women-science.php Science is precious, Science is present in everything in the life, at all stages. Life is not the same for everyone, for various reasons, place of birth, upbringing, social status, economic status, languages, among other factors. Not everyone has the facility to have Science in their hands or in their life with accessibility. Fri, 30 Aug 2024 22:59:17 +0000 Reflections|Navigating Home Edlyn Jusino Presents Stories of Women in Science to Upward Bound in Puerto Rico Edlyn Jusino Edlyn Jusino https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/edlyn-jusino-women-science.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/annabel-anyang-empowerment.php My journey in science communication initially began as a way to build my confidence in talking about public health back when I was in training to become a veterinarian. Now, it has developed into a genuine passion for creating fun and engaging ways to inspire young students in science. Science communication and outreach have become significant aspects of my journey, particularly through grassroots community engagement initiatives. Mon, 03 Jun 2024 22:59:17 +0000 Reflections Annabel Anyang Brings Her Passion for Empowerment and Outreach from Nigeria to Utah Annabel Anyang Annabel Anyang https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/annabel-anyang-empowerment.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/okafor-esther-molecular-biochemistry.php One of the most impactful activities I participated in was a community outreach aimed at high school students from underrepresented backgrounds. The goal was to inspire these young minds by demonstrating the fascinating world of biochemical research. Mon, 03 Jun 2024 08:59:17 +0000 Reflections Esther Okafor Breaks Down Molecular Biochemistry for Underrepresented Students Esther Okafor Esther Okafor https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/okafor-esther-molecular-biochemistry.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-may-reflection-lsmith.php When I started my PhD in Oncological Sciences, I had an optimistic assumption that my graduate work would quickly materialize into something that could impact the health and wellbeing of patients. However, humbled by the slow progress of research, I quickly realized that a research discovery amounting to a significant societal impact can require a marathon of meticulous work in a scientist’s lifetime. Thu, 09 May 2024 00:11:11 +0000 Reflections Lorenzo Smith Provides Insight into Cancer Research for the American Cancer Society Lorenzo Smith Provides Insight into Cancer Research for the American Cancer Society Lorenzo Smith Provides Insight into Cancer Research for the American Cancer Society https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-may-reflection-lsmith.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-may-reflection-ntapia-arellano.php My name is Natalia Tapia-Arellano, and I currently work as a postdoctoral researcher at the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Utah. I chose to work with STEMCAP (STEM Community Alliance Program), which focuses on providing STEM education opportunities to incarcerated youth in Utah. Thu, 09 May 2024 00:08:01 +0000 Reflections Natalia Tapia Arellano Shares the Importance of Representation and the Wonders of Space with Incarcerated Youth Natalia Tapia Arellano Shares the Importance of Representation and the Wonders of Space with Incarcerated Youth Natalia Tapia Arellano Shares the Importance of Representation and the Wonders of Space with Incarcerated Youth https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-may-reflection-ntapia-arellano.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-apr-reflection-parrot-anyang.php As an advocate for STEM education and women’s empowerment, I was thrilled to participate alongside Annabel in the SheTech Explorer Day event, where we had the opportunity to present a booth about undergraduate and graduate school to a diverse group of 3700 girls spanning grades 6 to 12. Held at the spacious Mountain American Exposition Center, the venue buzzed with excitement and anticipation as girls from various backgrounds gathered to explore the world of technology. Wed, 17 Apr 2024 00:04:28 +0000 Reflections Madison Parrot and Annabel Anyang Engage Thousands of Girls in STEM Opportunities Madison Parrot and Annabel Anyang Engage Thousands of Girls in STEM Opportunities Madison Parrot and Annabel Anyang Engage Thousands of Girls in STEM Opportunities https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-apr-reflection-parrot-anyang.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-apr-reflection-abrincks.php Just before the Covid-19 pandemic brought our world to a halt, I took a one-day weaving class at my local yarn shop. The next day I bought a loom. Though an experienced knitter, it was a somewhat impulsive purchase to quell curiosities I had about the art. Little did I know the pandemic would soon provide a lot of time to experiment. What I didn’t anticipate was how challenging it would be to do that experimentation without access to support from a community of fellow weavers. Tue, 16 Apr 2024 00:00:44 +0000 Reflections Ahnalee Brincks Weaves Together Experimentation and Community Connection Ahnalee Brincks Weaves Together Experimentation and Community Connection Ahnalee Brincks Weaves Together Experimentation and Community Connection https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-apr-reflection-abrincks.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-mar-reflection-cmiller.php Neurodivergent children and young adults can struggle with mainstream school requirements. For example, people with attention-deficit disorder (ADD) or Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) will often have a special skill or focus. They can excel in this subject at school, more so than other students, but further education requires students to have a well-rounded skill set, which can exclude neurodivergent people from studying their passion further. Thu, 28 Mar 2024 23:58:50 +0000 Reflections Christina Miller Connects with Neurodiverse Students in the UK Christina Miller Connects with Neurodiverse Students in the UK Christina Miller Connects with Neurodiverse Students in the UK https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-mar-reflection-cmiller.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-mar-reflection-gdiedrich.php As I stepped into Meridian Mall on a bright Saturday morning, the hum of bustling shoppers and local produce sellers filled the halls. With support from the Government of Meridian Township, this venue would serve as the backdrop for our engagement activity aimed at spreading awareness about the practical benefits of solar energy. Thu, 28 Mar 2024 23:51:20 +0000 Reflections Graham Diedrich Illuminates Minds by Spreading Solar Energy Awareness at a Hometown Event Graham Diedrich Illuminates Minds by Spreading Solar Energy Awareness at a Hometown Event Graham Diedrich Illuminates Minds by Spreading Solar Energy Awareness at a Hometown Event https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-mar-reflection-gdiedrich.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-zmedcalf.php I recently had the opportunity to host an engaging and interactive lesson on electrochemistry and electron-transfer reactions at the Saint Louis City Museum on September 30, 2023. The goal of the event was to teach the participant about electrochemistry and electron-transfer reactions while at the same time providing them with a lesson about why we make things and how electrosynthesis (and synthetic chemistry in general) allows us to probe the world around us. Fri, 01 Mar 2024 23:47:20 +0000 CSOE|Reflections Zach Medcalf Brings Electrochemistry to the St Louis City Museum Zach Medcalf Brings Electrochemistry to the St Louis City Museum Zach Medcalf Brings Electrochemistry to the St Louis City Museum https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-zmedcalf.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-nfriede.php Where can you get fresh produce from local farmers and build a battery from the 1800’s? The Playa Vista farmer’s market. Farmer’s markets were an important place to learn about the people in my community when I was growing up, so when the STEM Ambassador Program (STEMAP) gave me the opportunity to work with a focus group to organize an engagement activity, I knew I wanted to work with a farmer’s market. Fri, 01 Mar 2024 23:38:24 +0000 CSOE|Reflections Nathan Friede Teaches Kids to Build Batteries at the Farmers Market Nathan Friede Teaches Kids to Build Batteries at the Farmers Market Nathan Friede Teaches Kids to Build Batteries at the Farmers Market https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-nfriede.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-mao-wang.php As scientists, we are eager to engage with the public, especially with the younger generation, by sharing our knowledge in a way that is both accessible and motivating. Sharing the thrill of scientific exploration can spark curiosity and a passion for learning among children. Fri, 01 Mar 2024 23:32:06 +0000 CSOE|Reflections Kaining Mao and Yi Wang Teach Chemistry with Cabbage Kaining Mao and Yi Wang Teach Chemistry with Cabbage Kaining Mao and Yi Wang Teach Chemistry with Cabbage https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-mao-wang.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-ecarroll.php As a scientist, it’s our job to think both creatively and analytically to advance scientific knowledge and solve problems. Sometimes, I find myself so caught up in the details of my research that I can forget how truly beautiful and inspiring science can be. Science is for everyone, and everyone can do science. Fri, 01 Mar 2024 23:24:43 +0000 CSOE|Reflections Emily Carroll Electrifies Classroom Crafts Emily Carroll Electrifies Classroom Crafts Emily Carroll Electrifies Classroom Crafts https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-ecarroll.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-klegaspi.php I fell in love with chemistry and all of its possibilities when my high school chemistry teacher taught each unit by combining fun hobbies and relatable anecdotes with what we were learning in that class. She made me begin to think about chemical terms in the context of my everyday life–when I brush my teeth, when I cook my food, when I turn on my lights. After that, I began dedicating myself to making others love it as much as I do. Fri, 01 Mar 2024 23:12:32 +0000 CSOE|Reflections Kristine Legaspi and Crochet Chemistry at the Maker Faire Kristine Legaspi and Crochet Chemistry at the Maker Faire Kristine Legaspi and Crochet Chemistry at the Maker Faire https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-klegaspi.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-gu-chakraborty.php As we awaited the arrival of our audience, a myriad of thoughts raced through our minds. Would they be receptive to our message? Could we effectively capture their imaginations and spark their curiosity? Our audience, a diverse group of teenagers from the Rhode Island 4-H Center, entered the room with a mix of excitement and curiosity, ready to embark on a journey into the fascinating realm of electrochemistry and batteries. Fri, 01 Mar 2024 23:07:31 +0000 CSOE|Reflections Chaoxuan Gu and Dwaipayan Chakraborty Teach Battery Science at 4-H Center Chaoxuan Gu and Dwaipayan Chakraborty Teach Battery Science at 4-H Center Chaoxuan Gu and Dwaipayan Chakraborty Teach Battery Science at 4-H Center https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-gu-chakraborty.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-mar-nquach.php During my sophomore year of college, I told my friends about my declared majors: data science and chemistry. The most common response from my non-science friends was: “Why do you do it to yourself?”. This anecdote is one of my few examples reflecting on the notion that to those not in STEM, chemistry, or science in general, is challenging to logic through, and only few can understand it. Fri, 01 Mar 2024 22:59:15 +0000 CSOE|Reflections Nhu Quach Makes Magic at the Midtown Farmers Market Nhu Quach Makes Magic at the Midtown Farmers Market Nhu Quach Makes Magic at the Midtown Farmers Market https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-mar-nquach.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-mar-wang-russell.php Upon discovering the outreach opportunity for the first time, I knew I wanted to work on events involving simple scientific experiments for children and make science enjoyable for them. Coincidentally, it fell during the Halloween season, my favorite holiday of the year! Fri, 01 Mar 2024 22:45:45 +0000 CSOE|Reflections Zihan Wang and Victoria Russell Get Spooky at the Salt Lake Farmers Market Zihan Wang and Victoria Russell Get Spooky at the Salt Lake Farmers Market Zihan Wang and Victoria Russell Get Spooky at the Salt Lake Farmers Market https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-mar-wang-russell.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-feb-reflection-dparrot.php In 2016, I joined the Science Communication Fellows Program (SCFP) at the Natural History Museum of Utah. As I worked my way through the program, I realized this was exactly the kind of training I wanted and needed as I looked to my future as a professor. The only thing disappointing about the program was that it ended. Thu, 29 Feb 2024 22:41:45 +0000 Reflections Dave Parrot Takes His Teaching Skills on Tour Dave Parrot Takes His Teaching Skills on Tour Dave Parrot Takes His Teaching Skills on Tour https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-feb-reflection-dparrot.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-feb-reflection-ghandy.php As a mathematician, I have long despaired of making my discipline interesting to people outside of my field of study. Most people freeze up or turn away when I’ve approached them with the beautiful concepts of mathematics. Thu, 29 Feb 2024 21:08:11 +0000 Reflections Greg Handy Makes Math Relatable in Outdoor Spaces Greg Handy Makes Math Relatable in Outdoor Spaces Greg Handy Makes Math Relatable in Outdoor Spaces https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-feb-reflection-ghandy.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-feb-reflection-tdeans.php I am a STEM Ambassador for the University of Utah. This program has played an important role in teaching me how to approach various outreach and public engagement events. I am deeply passionate about educating the public in STEM, and outreach activities for inspiring kids to become interested in STEM fields. Thu, 29 Feb 2024 21:04:33 +0000 Reflections Tara Deans Engages with Local Pacific Islander Culture and Events Tara Deans Engages with Local Pacific Islander Culture and Events Tara Deans Engages with Local Pacific Islander Culture and Events https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-feb-reflection-tdeans.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-feb-reflection-sraghuraman.php When I started to think about public engagement of science, few things came to my mind: do table-top activities, give public seminars and get everyone excited about science. Though these were good starting points, the initial excitement slowly faded and nagging questions began creeping: Why am I doing it? How do I benefit from it? Thu, 29 Feb 2024 08:58:21 +0000 Reflections Shrinivasan Raghuraman Realizes the Value of Science Communication Shrinivasan Raghuraman Realizes the Value of Science Communication Shrinivasan Raghuraman Realizes the Value of Science Communication https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-feb-reflection-sraghuraman.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-feb-reflection-kcarlson.php My friend took a sip of his coffee and then smiled. “You would really like this program. You need to apply for this program.” Looking up the program online, I learned that STEMAP participants focused on designing content for segments of the population not typically drawn to science or for people who have limited access to educational materials. Thu, 29 Feb 2024 08:49:16 +0000 Reflections Krista Carlson Shares Glass Science and Art with Incarcerated Populations Krista Carlson Shares Glass Science and Art with Incarcerated Populations Krista Carlson Shares Glass Science and Art with Incarcerated Populations https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-feb-reflection-kcarlson.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-winter-newsletter.php The STEMAP team has been busy since our last newsletter in Spring of 2022! We have hired new staff, moved departments, attended several national conferences, developed a new funding model, and established professional collaborations to facilitate our transition off our seven years of NSF funding with the completion of our most recent AISL grant. STEMAP Team Sat, 24 Feb 2024 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Winter 2024 Newsletter CSOE 2024 cohort CSOE 2024 cohort https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2024-winter-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2022-spring-newsletter.php STEMAP has had a busy and exciting spring! Our Spring 2022 STEMAP cohort at the University of Utah (UU) wrapped up with a wonderful Reflection Meeting in May. Our Ambassadors engaged with several new community groups in the Salt Lake Valley both virtually and in person. You can read about the experiences of members of this Spring cohort and one member of the Summer 2021 Research Ethics cohort in the Reflect Section. STEMAP Team Tue, 31 May 2022 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Spring 2022 Newsletter STEM Ambassadors at a workshop STEM Ambassadors at a workshop https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2022-spring-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2022-winter-newsletter.php STEMAP has had a very busy winter! STEMAP staff have launched trainings for another cohort, with engagement activities happening later this spring and early summer. In addition, STEMAP offered another Broader Impacts workshop with the Research Education office, and has consulted with a number of researchers on their own Broader Impacts interests. We will be leading another one-day workshop later this spring. STEMAP Team Mon, 28 Feb 2022 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Winter 2022 Newsletter STEM Ambassadors at a workshop STEM Ambassadors at a workshop https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2022-winter-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2021-fall-newsletter.php STEMAP is pleased to introduce our new Program Manager, Andrew George! Andrew comes to us from the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago, and is looking forward to working with Ambassadors in our coming Spring cohort. We have a more thorough introduction of Andrew below. STEMAP Team Tue, 30 Nov 2021 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Fall 2021 Newsletter Andrew George in the Field Museum of Natural History Andrew George in the Field Museum of Natural History https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2021-fall-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2021-summer-newsletter.php Since 2016, Caitlin Weber has been the backbone of the STEM Ambassador Program (STEMAP): strong, flexible, and essential to the functioning of every part of our work. We are sad to inform our community that in August, 2021, Caitlin has stepped down from her role as Program Manager of STEMAP to take a new position in New Mexico. But we are happy for her taking new directions in her career. STEMAP Team Sat, 31 Jul 2021 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Summer 2021 Newsletter Lecture at lake Lecture at lake https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2021-summer-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2021-spring-newsletter.php Spring brought two more cohorts for the STEM Ambassador Program, plus planning for several more! We implemented training online for twenty-one Ambassadors, and are providing support as they engage remotely. STEMAP Team Fri, 30 Apr 2021 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Spring 2021 Newsletter Ambassadors standing in the snow with ski gear Ambassadors standing in the snow with ski gear https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2021-spring-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2021-winter-newsletter.php It has been a busy winter for the STEM Ambassador Program! We are developing new ways to deliver training online to support Ambassadors in engaging remotely. Program Director Nalini Nadkarni has presented in a variety of remote venues about STEMAP and the value of public engagement. Interest in public engagement of science training is greater than ever! STEMAP Team Sun, 28 Feb 2021 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Winter 2021 Newsletter Nalini Nadkarni, Director, STEM Ambassador Program Nalini Nadkarni, Director, STEM Ambassador Program https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2021-winter-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2020-fall-newsletter.php We are hard at work moving the STEM Ambassador Program forward through online workshops and remote engagement activities. We hope that even beyond COVID-19 restrictions, these adaptations will make STEMAP more accessible to scientists interested in public engagement. STEMAP Team Sun, 01 Nov 2020 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Fall 2020 Newsletter Person making a chemical compound Person making a chemical compound https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2020-fall-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2020-summer-newsletter.php The STEM Ambassador Program has had a busy summer! Our Ambassadors shifted to remote engagement as the University closed, and have been participating in online meetings and remote activities with youth centers. STEMAP Team Tue, 28 Jul 2020 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Summer 2020 Newsletter People placing seed into a seed box People placing seed into a seed box https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2020-summer-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2020-spring-newsletter.php We hope everyone is staying safe and healthy this Spring! We have an exciting newsletter this quarter, with articles featuring interviews with STEMAP Co-PIs Julie Risien and John Besley. These articles explore important topics within science communication, such as broader impacts, impact identity, and communication goals and objectives. STEMAP Team Tue, 28 Apr 2020 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Spring 2020 Newsletter Students at a table Students at a table https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2020-spring-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2020-winter-newsletter.php Winter is here and the newest cohort of STEM Ambassadors are working hard to develop ideas for their engagement activities! We received three times the number of applications for our available spots. We hope those we were unable to accommodate in this cohort will apply next fall! STEMAP Team Fri, 28 Feb 2020 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Winter 2020 Newsletter Students in a classroom Students in a classroom https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2020-winter-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2019-fall-newsletter.php Under this grant, STEMAP will test new training formats at the University of Utah and four institutions across the United States. Over the course of the project, the STEMAP research team and consultants will study how these formats might contribute to the long-term scalability and sustainability of STEMAP. This work will help grow STEMAP into a national program to serve a wider range of scientists and public audiences. STEMAP Team Mon, 07 Oct 2019 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Fall 2019 Newsletter Ambassadors at game design night Ambassadors at game design night https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2019-fall-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2019-summer-newsletter.php There is growing interest in the scientific community in engaging with the public, but the traditional “deficit model” of one-way communication of scientific facts and figures can fall short of making meaningful connections with audiences. STEMAP Team Sun, 07 Jul 2019 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Summer 2019 Newsletter Ambassador with kids in a forested area Ambassador with kids in a forested area https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2019-summer-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2019-spring-newsletter.php STEMAP Director Nalini Nadkarni was featured in The Guardian describing her field work in the Monteverde cloud forest of Costa Rica. Arguably one of the most sensitive ecosystems, Nalini describes how her study site and the species living there can be real life examples of the detrimental effects of climate change. STEMAP Team Sun, 07 Apr 2019 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Spring 2019 Newsletter Two women in a kitchen Two women in a kitchen https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2019-spring-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2019-winter-newsletter.php STEMAP staff has continued sharing our program through interviews and conferences. Director Nalini Nadkarni talked with Science Friday’s Ira Flatow and participated in National Geographic’s Nat Geo Nights, and Program Manager Caitlin Weber represented the STEMAP team at a conference in NYC! STEMAP Team Mon, 07 Jan 2019 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Winter 2019 Newsletter Students in a classroom Students in a classroom https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2019-winter-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2018-fall-newsletter.php STEMAP Director Nalini Nadkarni and Program Manager Caitlin Weber presented workshops at the annual Ecological Society of America annual meeting in New Orleans, and later traveled to Seattle to work with members of the University of Washington STEMAP cohort. Training for the online and University of Washington cohorts wrapped up August 31st. Stay tuned as these Ambassadors apply their training to implement exciting new engagement activities!ith a tattoo artist from Ironclad Electric Tattoo to discuss art and science. STEMAP Team Sun, 07 Oct 2018 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Fall 2018 Newsletter Ambassador Kendall FitzGerald helps campers build their own mini watersheds. Ambassador Kendall FitzGerald helps campers build their own mini watersheds. https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2018-fall-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2018-summer-newsletter.php STEMAP is now offering online training to a small group of scientists from around the country. We are also offering the first ever STEMAP training at the University of Washington. The summer cohorts will begin in June and run through October 2018. Please join us in welcoming the new STEM Ambassadors! STEMAP Team Sat, 07 Jul 2018 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Summer 2018 Newsletter Ambassadors Tara Deans and Kevin Davenport discuss ideas at the science communication workshop. Ambassadors Tara Deans and Kevin Davenport discuss ideas at the science communication workshop. https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2018-summer-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2018-spring-newsletter.php Welcome to the spring issue of the STEMAP Newsletter! Even as the academic year is coming to a close, we have had no shortage of exciting news and events! The 2018 STEMAP cohort kicked off in February. Ambassadors completed three workshops and are now working on designing engagement activities. Stay tuned for updates on engagement activities from this cohort over the spring and summer! STEMAP Team Sat, 07 Apr 2018 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Spring 2018 Newsletter The 2018 cohort is underway The 2018 cohort is underway https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2018-spring-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2018-winter-newsletter.php Happy 2018! The year is off to a great start for the STEM Ambassador Program with Ambassadors working on engagement events across the valley. David Belnap visited the Girls Transition Center, Lauren Williams spoke at the 10th East Senior Center, and Dara Niketic collaborated with a tattoo artist from Ironclad Electric Tattoo to discuss art and science. STEMAP Team Sun, 07 Jan 2018 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter Winter 2018 Newsletter Group of people cheering Group of people cheering https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2018-winter-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2017-november-newsletter.php It has been a busy month for the STEM Ambassador Program! Several STEM Ambassadors have visited local senior centers to share their work. JJ Horns spent an afternoon at the Riverton Senior Center where he discussed his research on migratory birds. David Belnap presented his work on viruses at the Liberty Senior Center, and Shrinivasan Raghuraman discussed neuroscience at the 10th East Senior Center. STEMAP Tue, 07 Nov 2017 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter November 2017 Newsletter Ambassadors Julia McGonicle, Kevin Davenport, and Judy Ou at the STEMAP table. Ambassadors Julia McGonicle, Kevin Davenport, and Judy Ou at the STEMAP table. https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2017-november-newsletter.php https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2017-october-newsletter.php Members of the 2017 STEMAP cohort could be found in several community venues this month. Pratiti Tagore delivered her second presentation on waterwise landscaping to inmates at the Salt Lake County Jail. Ariadne Penalva discussed brain health and aging with participants at the Liberty Senior Center. Lauren Williams also visited a local senior center. She spent an afternoon at the Magna Kennecott Center sharing her work in cognition and neural science. The evening after Lauren’s presentation, the STEMAP team hosted a celebration recognizing the Ambassadors and community partners who make such engagement activities possible. We are grateful for your support. STEMAP Sat, 07 Oct 2017 17:00:00 +0000 Newsletter October 2017 Newsletter Ambassadors, staff, and community partners at the Annual Celebration. Ambassadors, staff, and community partners at the Annual Celebration. https://stemap.utah.edu/blog/posts/2017-october-newsletter.php