KANNAPOLIS — Rowan-Cabarrus Community College invites people of all ages to its third STEM Open House at its facility on the North Carolina Research Campus.
On April 11, 2-5 p.m., the college will welcome the community to an interactive event showcasing its science, technology, engineering and mathematics programs.
“Almost everything we do in life has STEM applications, but not everyone realizes it,” said Dr. Carol A. Scherczinger, interim dean of the college’s science, biotechnology, mathematics and information technologies. “STEM subjects are very concrete. Science deals with our natural and physical world. Technology has given us the iPads, smart phones and computers we use every single day. Engineering is all about building things. Mathematics ranges from financial decisions to gaming strategies, such as playing pool or engaging in games of logic.”
The college will have dozens of interactive exhibits for kids and adults of all ages to stir curiosity for all things STEM. People who attend will be able to make their own rockets, perform DNA extraction in the college’s science labs, and even engage in activities involving sculpture and crime scene forensics.
“One of my goals since coming to Rowan-Cabarrus is to increase the breadth and depth of our STEM education. I fully believe that everyone can be interested in STEM — and that it’s critical that we embrace these subjects. America used to be the leader in technology and innovation. It’s time for us to reclaim that role,” said Dr. Carol S. Spalding, president of Rowan-Cabarrus.
The college wants younger children to attend with their parents. The exhibits will range from the complexity of balancing pH in dying hair to the chemistry of extracting DNA from strawberries and how to develop video games.
The college’s nursing program will also hold its annual health fair, complete with education on health conditions and opportunities to get active and have blood pressure taken.
Surrounding public and private schools are busing in students for the event.
“The target audience for this open house is broader than it has been for open houses of the past. In addition to driving more traditional-aged prospective students, we also want younger children … to participate with their parents,” said Scherczinger.
The STEM Open House will be one of many events occurring as part of the N.C. Science Festival taking place now through April 13.
For more information about this event or to bring a school group, contact Dusty Saine at 704-216-7105 or dusty.saine@rccc.edu. The location for the open house is on the North Carolina Research Campus, 399 Biotechnology Lane. For more information about Rowan-Cabarrus, visit www.rccc.edu.