CLOQUET TEACHER WINS SEAGATE EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE MENTORING AWARD

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE [ST. PAUL, MN, April 20, 2021] -- William Bauer, a Cloquet Public Schools educator, has won the prestigious Seagate Excellence in Science Mentoring Award at the 84th annual Minnesota State Science and Engineering Fair (SSEF). This award recognizes an outstanding science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) teacher who finds creative ways to nurture students’ interest in scientific research and discovery. Teachers are nominated by students, parents, and school staff. Award recipients receive a $1,000, a trophy and a Seagate hard drive. Each teacher’s school or science program also receives $1,000.

A student nominating Mr. Bauer remarked that “[he] has a way of listening to students that shows compassion and patience and makes them excited about science. Instead of pushing them to a topic, Bill gives his one hundred percent to hear about their interests, whether it be archery, video games, or basketball. He is one of the few adults in my life who were willing to truly listen about what I am interested in."

The 2021 SSEF was hosted virtually by the Minnesota Academy of Science (MAS) from March 23-30. Full SSEF results are available at mnmas.org.

In addition to the Excellence in Science Mentoring Award, Seagate sponsors two other SSEF awards. Seagate recognizes excellent scientific research conducted by students competing for the first time with the Seagate Emerging Scientist Award. Saeagate’s Rising Star Award recognizes two emerging student scientists whose projects demonstrate high degrees of difficulty, thoroughness, complexity, creativity, innovation, and effective communication.

At a live award ceremony on March 30, Seagate representative Nikki Shaffer announced the Seagate award winners. Seagate is a long-time sponsor and supporter of the SSEF, and is one of the event’s premier sponsors. “Seagate’s ongoing support is instrumental to encouraging science education and student research in Minnesota,” said MAS Executive Director Lara Maupin. Employees at Seagate served as volunteer judges during the SSEF, reviewing student projects from home to provide feedback and determine award winners.