HudsonAlpha's educational outreach team received a big boost from BBVA Compass Bank when the local financial institution donated almost $6,000 toward the Science for Me Too! program. This program creates opportunities for underserved students to experience science and lab activities outside of the regular school day. Through the generous support of BBVA Compass Bank, more than 489 elementary and middle school students have participated in hands-on science activities. Activities have taken place at the institute, as well as Sci-Quest Hands-on Science Center.
In addition, a core group of high school students, along with their mentors from the local 100 Black Men of America chapter and John Barrett, senior vice president of BBVA Compass Bank, took part in regular science Saturday meetings at HudsonAlpha. These students investigated career options, practiced laboratory skills and reinforced genetics concepts from their school work while working with HudsonAlpha educator Madelene Loftin. (see photo)
"Science for Me Too! is important because it allows these students to try on careers in science and really see themselves working in this environment," Loftin said. "The students come in, put on a lab coat and do science. After several visits, the guys were getting more independent in the lab and more confident in their abilities. We are grateful to BBVA Compass for helping make this opportunity possible for these students."