Alcoa Foundation renews commitment for STEM education
Texas A&M University-Victoria will continue to expand opportunities for area youth in science, technology, engineering and mathematics thanks to a new $50,000 commitment from Alcoa Foundation.
This investment, providing $25,000 per year for the next two years, will fund three annual events: Math and Robotics Awareness Day, Pathways to Understanding Life Sciences and Education, and a continued partnership with Calhoun Independent School District for marine science field trips.
"I am thrilled and deeply grateful for Alcoa Foundation’s support, which will empower our university to host three annual STEM events for our students and community," said Amber Countis, vice president for advancement and external relations. "This investment not only reinforces our commitment to advancing education, but also opens up new and exciting opportunities for hands-on learning, innovation and collaboration. Alcoa Foundation has been a steadfast partner with the university for decades, and we are thankful for their partnership."
Math and Robotics Awareness Day have become a highlight for high school students in the region, offering engagement with faculty and hands-on opportunities in math and computer science. Students compete for top honors in contests, earning not only recognition but also prizes.
The newly introduced Pathways to Understanding Life Sciences and Education event, otherwise known as PULSE, is a one-day experience designed to engage junior high and high school students in the surrounding region with real-world insights into medical and life science careers. Featuring industry speakers, interactive sessions and information about academic pathways, PULSE is designed to inspire students to envision futures in rapidly evolving health care fields.
"This gift will allow us to open new doors for collaboration and discovery," said Dmitri Sobolev, interim dean of the College of Natural & Applied Science. "We look forward to hosting these events that will not only spark students' interest, but also A&M-Victoria's connection with the broader community."
Additionally, A&M-Victoria will continue to partner with Calhoun ISD to offer field trips focused on marine and environmental science. Students will experience the Floating Classroom, Bay Education Center and Sea Center to broaden their perspectives through immersive hands-on learning.
Alcoa Foundation’s commitment to A&M-Victoria and the Crossroads community dates back to 1984. Since then, Alcoa has contributed more than $780,000 to the university in an effort to support scholarships, leadership programs and assist in growing STEM initiatives for area youth.
Texas A&M University-Victoria, located in the heart of the Coastal Bend region since 1973 in Victoria, Texas, offers courses leading to more than 50 academic programs in the colleges of Business, Education & Health Professions, Liberal Arts & Social Sciences, and Natural & Applied Science. A&M-Victoria provides face-to-face classes at its Victoria campus, as well as online classes that students can take from anywhere. The university supports the American Association of State Colleges and Universities Opportunities for All initiative to increase awareness about state colleges and universities and the important role they have in providing a high-quality and accessible education to an increasingly diverse student population, as well as contributing to regional and state economic development.