Second Annual Program Concludes with Student Showcase and Awards

Thirty-seven young scholars spent part of their summer exploring the worlds of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics during Alabama A&M University’s second annual STEM Training and Explorers Program, known as S.T.E.P. Designed for students in grades 4–9, the initiative provided immersive, hands-on learning experiences aimed at sparking curiosity, building confidence, and introducing participants to future STEM career pathways.

Hosted by the Department of Biological Sciences, the S.T.E.P. Summer Initiative is led by Dr. Jeanette Jones, AAMU Distinguished Professor and Program Director, with support from Dr. Lisa Dalrymple-McKitt, Assistant Professor of Biology and Assistant Director and Program Coordinator for STEP, the Office of Academic Affairs, and University faculty, staff, and community partners. The initiative is part of a growing effort to strengthen STEM education opportunities for young learners while fostering connections between the University and the surrounding community.

“The S.T.E.P. Summer Initiative is more than a summer enrichment program; it is an investment in the future of our students and our communities,” said Jones. “By introducing students to STEM concepts, we help them develop the curiosity and critical-thinking skills needed to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world.”

Throughout the two-week program, scholars participated in laboratory experiments, engineering design challenges, robotics activities, and scientific investigations led by Alabama A&M faculty, graduate students, and community partners. Students explored topics ranging from biology, genetics, physics, environmental science, and food microbiology to engineering, space exploration, and invention education.

The program included guided tours of University laboratories and academic facilities, as well as educational experiences with the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology. Students also engaged in National Inventors Hall of Fame curriculum modules that encouraged creativity, collaboration, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial thinking.

“The S.T.E.P. Summer Initiative is designed to help students understand that STEM is not limited to the classroom but is deeply integrated into every aspect of our daily lives,” said Dalrymple-McKitt. “By exposing students to STEM at an early age, we aim to increase confidence, inspire future career aspirations, and help students envision themselves as future scientists, engineers, healthcare professionals, inventors, researchers, and innovators.”

One highlight of the program was the opportunity for scholars to design and build projects that applied STEM concepts to real-world challenges. Participants worked in teams to develop inventions, explore the science of motion and light, and create engineering prototypes while learning the value of innovation and teamwork.

The program concluded with a project showcase and closing ceremony at the AAMU Knight Center, where students presented their work to family members, faculty, staff, and supporters. Scholars were recognized for their participation, engagement, and collaborative efforts throughout the program.

All participants received certificates of completion signed by AAMU President Daniel K. Wims and STEM-themed gift bags. Eighteen students earned first-, second-, and third-place ribbons for outstanding engagement and teamwork, while three scholars received Overall Student Awards recognizing exemplary behavior, critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.

University leaders anticipate that S.T.E.P. will continue to grow as part of a broader Pre-Professional and Allied Health Pipeline being developed within the Department of Biological Sciences. The initiative is designed to support students from early STEM exploration through higher education and into professional careers.

“Alabama A&M University remains committed to expanding educational opportunities that prepare students for academic and professional success,” said Jones. “Programs such as STEP strengthen the STEM pipeline by providing early exposure, mentorship, and hands-on experiences that encourage students to pursue higher education and careers in STEM and health-related fields. We look forward to building on the success of this initiative in the years ahead.”

“As we conclude another successful S.T.E.P. Summer Initiative, I am incredibly proud of what our students have accomplished and optimistic about what they will achieve in the future,” said Dalrymple-McKitt. “The future of STEM is bright, and I am honored to play a small role in helping inspire the next generation of innovators, explorers, and leaders.”