Last year, Clemson University began a series of free Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) events for K-12 students through a new partnership with STEM Global Action.
Through this initiative, Clemson aimed to enhance educational access and provide more hands-on opportunities for K-12 students for success in STEM beyond the classroom.
“Bringing STEM South Carolina to life through our partnership with STEM Global Action has been a powerful way to connect students and families with real-world STEM experiences,” Felicia Benton-Johnson said.
The first year has been a resounding success as STEM SC hosted events throughout the state. Since the first event kicked off last August at Spring Valley High School in Columbia, 1,307 families have attended STEM SC events, with students from over 700 K-12 schools participating.
The events include various hands-on activities where students and their families can actively participate. These activities, from performing experiments to designing and building projects, allow participants to engage and embrace what STEM offers.
“This was our first STEM event and it was phenomenal. My daughter and I were enlightened by all the engaging activities. The 3D printing inspired my daughter to create all the ideas in her mind to life. The StarLab was a world on its own, bringing the Astronomy class to a real-life experience outside of the classroom. It was AMAZING!”
To assist in these activities, 338 volunteers, including 218 college students from 10 higher education institutions across the state, have been essential in enhancing the STEM experience for K-12 students.
“With the support of more than 300 volunteers—including college students and STEM professionals—we created hands-on learning moments that sparked curiosity, built confidence, and made STEM real for young minds across South Carolina,” said Calvin Mackie, President & CEO of STEM Global Action.
Likewise, Benton-Johnson also credited the work of everyone involved in hosting these events and the impact Clemson is having through its partnership with STEM SC.
“This effort wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication of our volunteers, sponsors, and community members who helped bring hands-on learning to life,” Benton-Johnson said.
“The experience was great. This was our first year, so it took a little time for my kids to open up and explore, but after the first two tables they were ready to get to each table. We will be back next time!
“As a land-grant institution, we are deeply committed to transforming lives through education, outreach, and workforce development, and this initiative reflects our mission in action across South Carolina.”
Families who missed out on attending a STEM SC event will have another opportunity to participate on August 23 at Dr. Phinnize J. Fisher Middle School in Greenville from 9 a.m. to noon, and it is open to all K-12 students. Those interested in attending can register through the STEM SC website.