— By Georgia CSOs Ellen Gbolade and Gabby Guyton
In March, we had the amazing opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C., to represent the Georgia delegation of the Chief Science Officer (CSO) Program. Our goal was to spread awareness of the CSO initiative by connecting with fellow CSOs from across the country and networking with professionals who can support the mission of promoting STEM education. We proudly served as STEM ambassadors among our peers at the National STEM Festival.
Ellen:
One way I contributed to this goal was by speaking with my House Representative, Barry Loudermilk. We discussed ways to implement more STEM programs both in and out of school to help students explore the many opportunities available in STEM fields. I especially enjoyed this activity because I felt that by sharing my ideas with my representative, I was making a real difference. I learned how powerful it is to use my voice to advocate for change.
While in Washington, D.C., we also enjoyed many fun activities. With my group, I visited several historic landmarks, including the Washington Monument, and explored museums such as the National Museum of African American History and Culture, as well as the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.
Gabby:
I was fortunate to join Ellen in speaking with her representative’s staffer, where we discussed expanding Georgia’s Stop the Bleed public education initiative. This would give students the opportunity to learn life-saving skills. Being able to talk to our representatives reminded me how impactful youth voices can be in shaping a better future—especially when it comes to something as expansive as STEM.
We also attended some amazing panels and heard from speakers like Megan Smith (former U.S. CTO) and astronaut Cady Coleman. Between sessions, we explored D.C., including the Smithsonian’s ornithology taxidermy exhibit (birds that have been preserved for educational display) and the lower levels of the National Museum of African American History and Culture—which I highly recommend visiting.
After our time on Capitol Hill, we attended the National STEM Festival. As someone who has competed in science fairs, I especially enjoyed browsing the projects and talking to participants who had similar research interests.
For younger CSOs interested in attending the National STEM Festival, we encourage you to stay engaged in your communities and celebrate your achievements—no matter how big or small. This trip to Washington, D.C. reminded us of what the CSO program is all about: taking action and finding creative ways to make a difference.
The National STEM Festival is an annual event in Washington, D.C., that showcases student-led STEM projects from across the U.S., connecting young innovators with industry leaders, policymakers, and educators. For more information, visit the official website: www.nationalstemfestival.com
