FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MINNESOTA ACADEMY OF SCIENCE RECEIVES $20,000 GRANT
Howmet Aerospace Foundation Grant To Build Virtual STEM Education Networks

[ST. PAUL, MN, October 23, 2020] -- The Minnesota Academy of Science (MAS), a leading nonprofit in the field of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programming and education, received a $20,000 grant from the Howmet Aerospace Foundation. MAS will use the grant to support under-resourced students virtually during the COVID-19 health crisis. 

MAS plans to foster virtual networks, collaborative teams, and online communities of STEM students, graduate students, teachers, and professionals. “In this time of unprecedented challenges in education, Howmet’s support will enable MAS to make a critical impact on STEM education for many Minnesota students,” said MAS Executive Director Lara Maupin. 

Support from Howmet Aerospace Foundation will connect under-served students with STEM professionals and graduate students for e-mentoring and tutoring services through MAS’ Fostering Opportunities and Relationships in STEM Education (FORSE) program. Funds will also be instrumental in MAS’ initiative to create networking opportunities for STEM teachers, students, and professionals to share resources and strategies during distance and hybrid learning. FORSE partners for the 2020-2021 school year include Bdote Learning Center, Highwood Hills Elementary School and Little Women of Color.

Howmet Aerospace Foundation, the independently endowed charitable arm of Howmet Aerospace, invests in STEM and technical education and workforce development initiatives, with an emphasis on increased access to STEM fields for underrepresented individuals. 

Founded in 1873, the Minnesota Academy of Science is a statewide 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering interest in STEM by sponsoring STEM-education programs and events for students in elementary school through college. Entering its fourth year, FORSE is a ground-breaking MAS program that provides pathways for student populations traditionally underrepresented in STEM fields to participate in scientific research. 

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For more information, please contact:

Emily Shepard, Communications Specialist, emilyshepard@mnmas.org 

Lara Maupin, Interim Executive Director, laramaupin@mnmas.org