STEM Discovery Day at OHIO Lancaster: Innovation and inspiration

Two students wear stethoscopes and put them on a dummy at the STEM Discovery Day event

�� Lancaster hosted more than 350 students from 21 Central Ohio area schools, along with 36 teachers and 30 science and technology professionals, for STEM Discovery Day on Friday, May 9.

This dynamic, hands-on experience was designed to spark curiosity and demonstrate the real-world impact of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). From 8 a.m. until 2 p.m., the campus was alive with energy as students rotated through engaging breakout sessions featuring robotics, chemistry, renewable energy, coding and more.

Helping students see themselves as future innovators

A teacher talks with a group of middle school students in a classroom at the STEM Discovery Day event

The day began with an incredible keynote presentation by a representative from COSI, the Center of Science and Industry—one of the nation’s premier science centers. Known for its award-winning educational programs and immersive science exhibits, brought STEM principles to life in a fun, high-energy session that left students energized and ready to explore.

“STEM Discovery Day was all about igniting curiosity and showing middle school students, that science, technology, engineering, and math are not just subjects—they’re pathways to solving future real-world challenges,” said Dr. Pamela Kaylor, professor of instruction in communication studies and STEM Discovery Day co-chair. “Through hands-on activities, we’re helping them envision themselves as future innovators. This event wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and creativity of our incredible organizing team, many science professionals who served as presenters, our generous sponsors, and dedicated volunteers—whose passion for STEM education is making a lasting impact on the next generation.”

Dr. Jacqueline Tudor, co-chair of the event, joined Kaylor in thanking the educators, planning committee, and sponsors who made the day possible. Major sponsors included , , , , , , , and .

The power of collaboration between higher education and local schools

Two leaders at the STEM Discovery Day event pose with the cutout image of Rufus

The event received high praise from Ohio Chancellor Mike Duffey, who attended and visited multiple sessions.

“What I witnessed today was exactly what we need all Ohio’s colleges and K-12 schools to be doing together,” said Duffey. “Young students’ eyes were lighting up, they were waving hands in the air and having fun learning about STEM, liquid nitrogen, and energy. The COSI kickoff was so much fun, and I was able to observe students diving deeper in the sessions afterward. On behalf of the State of Ohio, I extend my thanks to �� for being such a great community partner.”

Chancellor Duffey plays a key role in shaping higher education policy across Ohio and supporting the state’s colleges, universities, and technical centers. Also in attendance was Dr. Lewatis McNeal, vice provost of regional higher education and partnerships, and former interim dean of OHIO Lancaster, who participated throughout the day’s sessions.

“STEM Discovery Day exemplifies the power of collaboration between higher education and our local schools. Events like this not only ignite students’ interest in science and innovation but also show them that a future in STEM is within reach,” said McNeal. “It was inspiring to see so many young minds engaged, curious, and excited about learning.”

A celebration of learning, curiosity and community partnership

A leader at the STEM Discovery Day event shows students an item in a laboratory pan while wearing in a laboratory

Kaylor emphasized the long-term impact of the event.

“Our approach is evidence-based. In our 40+ years of organizing STEM events, a great many of the young participants have grown up to have amazing careers in STEM—and are now presenters themselves,” Kaylor said.

Feedback from both students and teachers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many sharing how inspired they felt by the exposure to STEM in action. The day was a celebration of learning, curiosity and community partnership.