An amazing 3-day STEM YEA was held July 10-13, 2025, for aspiring 8th grade students, presented by the Rotary District 7430 Rotary Clubs provided an immersive opportunity for hands-on learning, collaboration and teamwork while expanding their STEM knowledge. Fifty-four students from twenty-eight Middle Schools from Montgomery, Bucks, Berks, Lehigh, and Northampton Counties participated thanks to scholarships provided by twenty Rotary Clubs.
A celebration dinner, science fair and recognition ceremony held on July 13 displayed the students’ Mars Habitat projects with their parents and friends. The program featured comments from Dr. Laurie McMillan, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Kutztown University. Students received a certificate and class picture from Rotary District 7430 District Governor Mary Cook.
STEM YEA is a Rotary District-7430 wide cooperation, formed by an exploratory team of Rotarians with various skill sets to develop and implement an opportunity for students interested in STEM. SETI (The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) developed the curriculum. STEM YEA delivers more than science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts. This enriching opportunity for students develops a variety of skill sets that our rapidly changing world needs.
Seth a student from Pottstown said: “It was so much fun, and I met so many people and friends. These four days changed my life, and I am thankful for the opportunity.”
Gwenn Carr, STEM YEA Program Manager said, “The Rotary District 7430 is grateful for the Rotarian volunteers collaborating to make this academy experience for youth who may not have an opportunity such as this. Together, we have created an event helping to shape the future for our youth by providing not only the STEM YEA experience but also the gateway to other Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) programs.”
Plans are already underway for 2026 STEM YEA July 9-12, 2026, at Kutztown University. For more information visit www.STEMYEA.com. Rotary District 7430 offers a variety of youth focused programs designed to develop leadership skills, promote service, and foster global citizenship. If you are interested in learning more about Rotary District 7430 and our impact visit our website at: www.rotarydistrict7430.org.