Argonne National Laboratory is proud to announce the start of the new Argonne Education Teen Advisory Council (ATAC), which will provide voice and influence to the Lab’s educational programs and further engagement in STEM across all communities.
The council consists of 13 high school students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The council will meet virtually on a biweekly basis to learn and share their thoughts about Argonne’s educational programs and provide advice and insight in how the Lab can better connect and support teens.
“For our education initiatives to be successful, we are looking to incorporate youth voices earlier into program design and implementation,” said Learning Lab Instructor Kelly Sturner. “We’re also looking to build stronger relationships and expand our engagement with communities, particularly those on the Southside of Chicago where the Lab has launched its Argonne in Chicago initiative.”
In addition to providing feedback and suggestions for Argonne’s educational programs, ATAC members will also gain invaluable insights into the Lab’s STEM research and facilities. Students will connect with the Lab’s professional science and engineering staff, as well as with other STEM resources only available at the Lab.
“We hope the Teen Advisory Council will prove to be a mutually beneficial experience for both the students and the Lab,” said Learning Center Lead John Domyancich. “Students will learn more about working at a national laboratory, and the Lab in turn will learn how we can further enrich their STEM pathways.”
The following students have been selected for the council.
- Christopher Cruz, Gary Comer College Prep
- Treazure Edwards, Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School
- Amira Froukh, Aqsa School
- Mia Garibay, Proviso West High School
- Madison Griggs, Whitney Young Magnet High School
- Taylor Holland, Tinley Park High School
- Evan Lok, University of Chicago Laboratory Schools
- Annie O’Connor, Mother McAuley Liberal Arts High School
- Mark Sisco, Fenton Community High School
- Marvin Torres, East Aurora High School
- Seth Turner, Morgan Park Academy
- Evelyn Vaughn, Whitney M. Young Magnet High School
- Henry Xie, Naperville North High School
“Argonne’s commitment to our community and youth is strong and we are excited about bringing together such a diverse and talented group of young people.” said Educational Programs and Outreach Manager Meridith Bruozas. “Through this program we hope to nurture their STEM leadership skills by giving them a seat at the table and opportunity to influence programming and teen opportunities.”
More details on the Teen Advisory Council can be found here.