FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MINNESOTA ACADEMY OF SCIENCE RECEIVES $75,000 GRANT FROM 3M FOR STEM EDUCATION
FORSE students and mentors from the Bdote Learning Center celebrate the end of successful year
[ST. PAUL, MN, July 19, 2021] -- The Minnesota Academy of Science (MAS), a leading nonprofit in the field of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programming and education, recently received a $75,000 grant from 3M to expand their Fostering Opportunities and Relationships in STEM Education (FORSE) program. This innovative program, currently in its fourth year, works with partner sites to provide students from populations traditionally underrepresented in STEM with learning experiences such as mentoring and enrichment activities.
Funding from 3M will boost FORSE from its current six partnerships to twenty partnerships with schools and programs, reaching approximately 800 students and educators. “Support provided by 3M will enable us to greatly increase FORSE’s impact, giving many more underrepresented students in the Twin Cities early exposure to STEM and the support they need to imagine and pursue a future in STEM,” said MAS Executive Director Lara Maupin.
FORSE works directly with educators at each partner site to create tailored STEM outreach and enrichment opportunities. Through previous partnerships, FORSE has provided mentors for Science Fair projects, supplies and volunteers for coding clubs, culturally-sensitive activities for distance learning, step-by-step research guides, STEM play days, curriculum, and more.
Founded in 1873, MAS is a statewide 501(c)3 nonprofit organization committed to advancing STEM by connecting Minnesotans of all backgrounds with opportunities to engage in STEM learning, research, and communication - and to recognize excellence in these areas. MAS’ statewide programs include team competitions, individual research paper and project showcases, and mentoring and enrichment programs that promote STEM inquiry and research. MAS serves preschool-12 and undergraduate students, educators, and schools as well as STEM graduates and professionals seeking to network and volunteer.
