2019 Continuums of Service Conference

Preparing historically disadvantaged minority students for professions in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, enriched through the Arts (STEAM), is a community effort. Unfortunately, too many students do not believe that they are capable in STEM, or lack important resources and information about requirements and pathways leading to STEAM degrees and careers. As an Anchor Institution, USD is poised to address these issues. This presentation highlights two tandem efforts designed to invite, support, and engage the community to support this student population: 1) The STEAM Summer Academy provides quality educational programming for middle and high school students throughout San Diego’s diverse urban communities, with a focus on students from low-income areas. During the week-long experience, students are challenged to consider how developing their STEAM skills can help them address society’s most pressing issues, including poverty and unequal access to education. 2) The STEAM Youth and Community Conference is a free, one-day event that engages students and their families, the university community, STEAM professionals from minority communities, local educators, and community leaders. This workshop begins with an overview of the two programs, followed by several hands-on STEAM activities. The session ends with a conversation where participants share their questions and feedback.