The Dow Chemical Company Foundation, among others, are working with Michigan State University to open a $10-million science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) center in Midland that will offer classes for K-12 students, along with select Michigan State college courses and teacher enrichment programs.
“By enabling our youth to become STEM problem solvers, we are investing in the shared future of our company, our community, and even our planet,” says Andrew Liveris, chairman and CEO of Midland-based Dow Chemical Co.
Liveris says the center, to be located in the former Michigan Molecular Institute in Midland, will offer curriculum targeted at young pupils. Students, teachers, and administrators from Great Lakes Bay Region school districts, including Midland Public Schools, will be involved with programming and implementation.
“With Michigan State’s growing presence in Midland with the Midland Research Institute for Value Chain Creation and ongoing community investments through Momentum Midland, this partnership was a natural fit as we pursue more ways to broaden our research, educational, and economic impact in Michigan,” says Anna Simon, president of MSU.
Simon says some concepts in the works as part of the center’s STEM program offerings include a Dow scientist-in-residence program that offers students access to Dow science professionals and laboratories equipped with technologies to enable communication around the world.
Other foundations working with the center include the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation, the Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation, and the Charles J. Strosacker Foundation. Initial programming is expected to start in May.
