The Innovation Foundation and StillWonder partner to expand STEAM opportunities
Thursday, October 31, 2024
Media Contact: Cody Cramer | The Innovation Foundation at OSU | 405-613-2838 | ccramer@okstate.edu
The Innovation Foundation at Oklahoma State University and StillWonder have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on expanding STEAM opportunities for children.
The partnership marks a significant step toward enhancing educational resources and creating interactive learning experiences for children K-12 and beyond. STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. It is an educational approach that integrates these disciplines to promote creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The inclusion of the arts in STEAM emphasizes the importance of creativity and design thinking in technical fields, highlighting how artistic approaches can enhance innovation in science and technology.
“Partnering with The Innovation Foundation at OSU marks an exciting chapter for StillWonder,” said Sara Brown, StillWonder executive director. “This MOU opens the door to new opportunities and strengthens our mission to make a permanent interactive, educational play a reality in Stillwater. We’re thrilled to be working together to move one step closer to making our children’s museum concept a permanent fixture in the community.”
STEAM encourages children to make connections across disciplines, preparing them for careers where technical knowledge and creative skills are equally important. By blending these areas, educators aim to foster a more holistic learning experience that equips learners with diverse skills to solve complex, real-world challenges.
"At The Innovation Foundation, our goal is to increase STEAM opportunities, not just for K-12 students but for lifelong learners across the community,” said Elizabeth Pollard, CEO of The Innovation Foundation. “Our interdisciplinary applied research institutes, the One Health Innovation Lab and Cowboy Enterprises make this collaboration even more impactful. By working together, we’re empowering the next generation of innovators, creators and problem solvers."
StillWonder has been a leader in creating immersive, educational experiences for children in the region. The partnership with Innovation Park will further develop these efforts, paving the way for a permanent space where children can learn through play and exploration.
"As StillWonder continues to grow, our partnership feels like the ideal next step,” Brown said. “Their innovative approach aligns seamlessly with our goal to provide interactive learning experiences that nurture imagination and discovery in children.”
The MOU between StillWonder and The Innovation Foundation at OSU represents a shared commitment to education, innovation and community development. Both organizations are eager to explore new ways to foster creativity and growth in Stillwater, laying the groundwork for future generations of learners.