A ribbon-cutting March 16 launched a new STEM program for fourth-through-eighth graders at Drexel Neumann Academy in Chester.

Neumann University is a sponsor and partner for the school.

Drexel Neumann Academy partnered with Chemours, a global chemistry company; the NHL, and the Ed Snider Youth Hockey Foundation to help make a new STEM Studio and program a reality. Along with the ribbon-cutting Chemours presented a check to the school.

 A state-of-the-art science lab and equipment will include robotics, 3-D printing, and a new curriculum featuring hands-on learning, and mentorship from Chemours’ scientists and engineers, STEM professionals, and volunteers.

 “At Chemours, we’re dedicated to investing in our local communities to provide under-represented students more access and meaningful exposure to STEM education,” said Alvenia Scarborough, SVP, Corporate Communications and Chief Brand Officer, Chemours.

More than 100 students will benefit from the partnerships and the STEM program, working with Chemours experts inside and outside the classroom.

Some examples of the program in action include students learning about Opteon refrigerants on World Refrigeration Day, June 26, a field trip to the Chemours Discovery Hub in Newark, Del., and participation in a Snider Hockey summer camp that will feature a custom STEM-based curriculum.

Two eighth-grade students will also be awarded academic scholarships to an AOP high school from the Ed Snider Youth Hockey Foundation.  

Attending the ribbon cutting and check presentation was Neumann University President Chris Domes, along with Drexel Neumann Academy students and board members; representatives from Chemours, the NHL, and the Ed Snider Youth Hockey Foundation.

“We are so grateful to these partners for recognizing the potential that exists within our students and the Drexel Neumann Academy community,” said Alice Sylvester, President, Drexel Neumann Academy. “In addition, their interaction with Chemours’ world-class scientists and engineers will no doubt inspire students to discover a passion for STEM learning and open their world to potential future career opportunities as they move forward in their educational journey.”