KINGS POINT, N.Y., Feb. 4, 2016 – Members of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) Science Club and faculty provided interactive hands-on science activities and fun math challenges to over 150 students at the Second Annual Family STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) Night at the Elizabeth M Baker Elementary School in Great Neck, N.Y., Jan. 12. 

“We are so thankful at Baker for all that you have done to contribute to our second annual STEM night,” said Elementary Science Teacher Aileen M. Sullivan. “Your students and faculty once again did an amazing job at presenting your experiments in an engaging and exciting way.  Not only were your activities a fun part of the evening, but the presence of your faculty and midshipmen raised the level of scientific thinking for our students.  Your students were poised, well-spoken, energetic, and endlessly patient with our little future scientists!”

Associate Professor Ping Furlan, Ph.D., who helped organize the event noted, “during the entire night, the USMMA stations were flooded with the enthusiastic youngsters, who were obviously enjoying themselves exploring the magic of science while asking lots of questions!  All the participating Club members and faculty enjoyed the event and took pride in helping excite the local youth about learning the importance of taking care of our environment through green choices and green sciences.”

The midshipmen and faculty gave presentations to the third-through-fifth graders on the following themes: “Water, Water, Everywhere,” “Harnessing Green Energy,” and “Chemical Products Are Going Green!”  The themes provided an opportunity for the local youth to experience the fun of making slimy slime, growing instant snow, and creating colorful artwork.  Through a hands-on approach, students also learned about solar energy, light emitting diodes and water solution conductivities.  The activities were prepared to educate the students about the importance of using and searching for green and alternative energy and products. 

By Dr. Ping Furlan, Ph.D., and Cmdr. Benjamin Benson, USMS