From Harvard to NASA – Shaping the Future of STEM at ECC!

Elgin Community College’s Math, Science, and Engineering (MSE) Division is set to host a full day of discovery, innovation, and inspiration on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. The event will feature world-renowned scientists and hands-on experiences designed to ignite a passion for STEM among students and the community.

All events are open to the Elgin Community College students, faculty, and staff. Only the panel discussion, keynote lecture, and stargazing are open to the public.

Agenda

Morning

9 to 9:30 am
Welcome and Meet & Greet

Building B, Jobe Lounge

Meet Dr. Michael Foley, astrophysicist and planetary scientist at Harvard University.

9:30 am to12:45 pm
Interactive STEM Workshops

Building B, Jobe Lounge

9:30 to 11 am
Group 1:"Mars Rover Robotics"

Presented by Dr. Foley and Dr. Jesik.
Build and control simple robots in this hands-on experience.

11 to 11:15 am
Break

11:15 am to 12:45 pm
Group 2: "Robotics Demonstration”

Presented by Dr. Foley and Dr. Jesieventk.
Explore robotics programming and mini-robot controls.

Afternoon

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Panel Discussion: "The Future of STEM Careers"

Building B, Jobe Lounge

Led by Dr. Foley, Dr. Bennani and Dr. Jesik.

Gain insights into emerging STEM opportunities and career paths.

3:30 to 4:30 pm
Q&A Session

Building B, Jobe Lounge

An open dialogue with Dr. Foley to explore your curiosities and questions.

Evening

6 to 6:30 pm
Pre-Lecture Networking

Building E, Seigle Auditorium

Enjoy refreshments and casual conversations before the evening keynote.

6:30 to 8 pm
Keynote Lecture by Dr. David Leisawitz:"Reaching for the Stars: My STEM Journey to NASA and How You Might Continue the Journey"

Building E, Siegle Auditorium and via Zoom

Join the Zoom Presentation

Keynote Speaker: Dr. David Leisawitz, a Research Astrophysicist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center

Moderator: Dr. Farah Bennani, Dean of Math, Science and Engineering at ECC

Dr. Leisawitz will share his inspiring career story, challenges, and achievements in STEM, followed by a live Q&A session.

8 to 9:30 pm
Stargazing Party

Building B, Lakeside Patio

Hosted by Dr. Richard Jesik, Astrophysicist Associate Professor at ECC.

End the day under the stars with telescopes and expert guidance.

Event last updated at 1:45 PM on Monday, April 21, 2025.