by Dwayne Sattler, CEO
Imagine the impact: for twenty years, CEF’s You Be The Chemist Challenge® has empowered bright young minds in grades 5-8 to explore the captivating world of STEM. From science’s intricate wonders to confronting pressing sustainability issues, the Challenge serves as a catalyst for exploration and discovery.
“[The] Challenge has helped me discover my place and career in STEM,” says Kylette G., who took part in 2017. “I am going to attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University to major in Forensic Biology. [The Challenge] helped me excel in science classes in high school, which I hope will be the same for the future,” she shares.
Stories like Kylette’s drive us to push boundaries further. CEF is dedicated to reaching all students, especially those who remain underrepresented in today’s STEM workforce. After-school programs like the Challenge are a proven way of helping young students from all backgrounds continue their STEM studies and bridge classroom learning to their future careers.
Embarking on a path of discovery, this year’s Challenge witnessed an unprecedented surge with an astonishing 17,000 student participants. With over 50% of this year’s participants being female and coming from economically disadvantaged schools, CEF is breaking barriers and fostering opportunities like never before.
From classrooms buzzing with excitement to Challenge competitions fueling STEM passion, student feedback is nothing short of awe-inspiring. An impressive 85% of participants discovered new STEM career paths. Even more astonishing, a staggering 92% expressed newfound interest in STEM subjects, igniting their aspirations for the future. These are not merely statistics; they symbolize the spark of curiosity that will build your future STEM workforce.
Lexi K, a 2009 competition participant, is a shining example of the Challenge’s transformative power. Her proud parent reflects, “My daughter is from a rural community with limited opportunity, so the Challenge opened up doors. I am not sure she would be a chemical engineer without the Challenge.”
The Challenge is more than just a competition; it is a journey. A journey where students transform into problem-solvers, critical thinkers, and champions of change. With two decades of the Challenge empowering young minds, we are reminded of each student’s limitless potential.
Thanks to the generous support of CEF’s industry partners, the Challenge has impacted over 500,000 students and awarded $250,000 in scholarships since 2004. Our results speak volumes – 100% of Challenge winners have pursued STEM after high school.
The Challenge’s influence is undeniable!
In a world propelled by technology and innovation, the demand for a technically skilled, STEM-related workforce has reached unprecedented heights. At CEF, we understand that nurturing a love for science among our youth is the cornerstone of a prosperous future.
Join us in celebrating 20 years of Challenge excellence, show your support, and Build the Future STEM Workforce!
Visit https://www.chemed.org/get-involved/ to find out more.
