Our second STEM YEA camp took place at Kutztown University of Pennsylvania this year, with 45 students who might not otherwise have had such an opportunity. As it was last year, it was a great event to witness for many reasons. First was the teaching staff; it was great to watch their deep engagement with the students individually and collectively. The focus seemed to engage the critical thinking of the students, whatever the activity was. Watching the care, thought, and expertise of the educators was uplifting.

The kids themselves were kind, respectful, and came together as a group almost immediately through team-building exercises. Seeing the effort made in group problem-solving was excellent—an integral part of the scientific process. This year the kids were given lab coats by sponsor Applied Separations, which were a big hit; we noted that many wore them constantly. A neat psychological way to put it in a young mind that such a future could be possible, along with talking to some of the great interns and teachers and professors who have made the journey through education themselves.

Rotarians attended the camp as well, 53 of whom served as volunteers. Four District Governors and one DG-elect attended the Project Building Sessions or the celebration dinner. It was indeed a great district-wide effort, with nineteen clubs having sponsored students. There were two Rotary sessions as part of the camp to educate the campers in Rotary values.

This is a great event to be a volunteer; anyone who has done so in the last two years would surely say the same.

Dr. Seidner was recognized by his North Penn Rotary Club for his part in the STEM YEA program, sponsored by Rotary Clubs in District 7430, was held at Albright College in Reading, PA July 8 through July 11, 2022. The theme was “Astrobiology: the Search for Life on Mars”.

Nine STEM sessions were held over a 2½ day time period; six project building sessions were held over a 1-day time period. Students built habitats, rovers and landers from ordinary materials. Forty-one fully vaccinated or boosted students attended the first Academy. There were 18 girls and 23 boys from 26 public middle schools in 20 school districts. Planning continues apace for our 2023 event which we hope will be bigger and better.

You can help as a Volunteer, or as a Sponsor.