BVU to Host STEM & the Arts Festival

STORM LAKE, IA (09/28/2017) (readMedia)-- Buena Vista University (BVU) is hosting its second annual STEM & the Arts Festival for area youth on Oct. 7 from 9 a.m.- 3:30 p.m. The event is in partnership with Iowa State University Extension, community members and the Iowa Governor's STEM Council.

The day-long immersion experience – which is open to students in grades four through eight -- will provide participants with ample opportunities to engage with faculty and community experts across all STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields, as well as take part in interactive English language arts activities and the integration of arts and science.

"The Festival introduces youth to a diverse array of topics and hands-on experiences throughout the day," said Dr. John Bedward, assistant professor of education – STEM at BVU. "We're hoping to open students' minds to the plethora of STEM fields and career possibilities that are available to them."

Specifically, students can choose their own "colored tracks," or areas of emphasis they will focus on throughout the day in small groups taught by BVU faculty and community partners. Topics include robotics, the environment, biology, space, and more.

"Today's ever-changing economy requires a diverse workforce," added Bedward. "Exposure to STEM fields equips young people with a broad knowledge base that can be applied to a variety of fulfilling and challenging careers throughout the course of their lives."

For more information about the Festival or to register online, visit www.extension.iastate.edu/buenavista/4h. Participants can also register on Oct. 7 at 8:30 a.m. in the Schaller Memorial Chapel on the BVU campus. Refreshments and lunch will be provided for all attendees.

All students grades four through eight can attend the Festival free of charge, though the event has a capacity of 96. Families and community members are encouraged to attend a public showcase of student work at 2:45 p.m. in the Schaller Memorial Chapel.

About Buena Vista University

Since 1891, Buena Vista University has prepared students for lifelong success and blends liberal arts with real-world applications. Our traditional campus on the shores of Storm Lake hosts students in a variety of majors and pre-professional programs, including elementary, secondary, and special education; business and accounting; and biological and chemical sciences. Our 16 degree-completion locations, online, and graduate programs expand student potential with a pace and academic rigor designed for working adults and a variety of class formats that make scheduling even more convenient. With an average scholarship of more than 50 percent off of tuition, BVU is an affordable option for all students. Visit www.bvu.edu.

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