Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is part of an initiative the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has taken on to encourage the natural curiosity of youth members and their sense of wonder about these fields. To support this initiative, the BSA developed the STEM Nova Awards program so that youth members have fun and receive recognition for their efforts. For several years, chemical educators at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) have worked with various volunteers to host STEM University SIUE. Partners include the SIUE Student Affiliates of the ACS (Chem Club), the St. Louis Section of the ACS, the SIUE Chapter of Alpha Phi Omega, the Scott Field Post of the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME), and the Greater St. Louis Area Council, BSA. Each year this outreach education event serves several hundred male and female youth and adults registered in BSA programs. In one day of STEM-related activities, Cub Scouts (boys and girls age 7-11) complete the requirements for a Nova Award. Scouts BSA youth (young men and women age 12-18) complete the requirements for one or two STEM merit badges (for example Chemistry merit badge) or a Nova Award. Adult Scouters in attendance help provide the programming, but also have the opportunity to receive training to be Nova counselors and Supernova mentors. STEM University SIUE is an example of an annual event that successfully brings together volunteers from the university, the community, professional societies, and Scouting to serve youth in the region.

STEM University SIUE: Outreach education for youth in BSA programs

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.