Congratulations Mike Hauser Academy class of 2023
Congratulations to the brilliant minds of the Mike Hauser Academy class of 2023! On June 30, the Academy students, their families and teachers gathered at Sonoma State University for a graduation celebration.
These exceptional students have successfully completed the transformative three-week STEM academy, paving the way for an exciting journey into high school and beyond. With newfound inspiration and a deep appreciation for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, they are ready to make waves in the world of innovation.
2023 marks the first year since the pandemic that students were on-site at local companies to interact with scientists, engineers and professionals, observe demonstrations, and participate in direct learning experiences and practical applications for STEM concepts.
While the inaugural Mike Hauser Academy launched with four business partner locations—Agilent Technologies (now Keysight Technologies), JDSU (now VIAVI Solutions), Pacific Gas & Electric Co., and Medtronic—there are now over 25 businesses and organizations participating, helping students make the connection between the importance of STEM studies and the possibilities of future careers. These businesses range from local powerhouses like Medtronic and Keysight to smaller and mid-sized firms like BKF Engineers, Hogan Land Services and TLCD Architecture. (view the full list of partners)
With major funding by the John Jordan Foundation, the Metro Chamber’s Mike Hauser Academy provides the critical bridge for many middle school students entering high school. This year the in-person Academy was particularly relevant because students missed a significant portion of their on-campus middle school experience due to the pandemic, and the program was critical to build confidence and to help them prepare to enter high school in the fall.
It’s all part of a collaborative effort to increase academic achievement and inspire students to pursue their dream careers. Students were able to talk with STEM professionals about what they do on the job, their career paths, and how they use STEM in their day-to-day work.
In the coming months, an analysis of pre- and post-Academy survey results will be released in a report that will shed light on students’ perceptions and attitudes toward math and science in education, confidence with science and math, and interest in pursuing STEM majors and careers.
