In 2020, Penn Engineering formed Inveniam, a partnership with local nonprofit Heights Philadelphia to launch a STEM Equity and Innovation Lab. The lab encourages local students to pursue postsecondary studies and careers in STEM.
A few years later, the program expanded beyond the classroom with the inaugural STEM Field Day held at Penn Park. Philly students in grades K–8 had the opportunity to engage with industry professionals and gain university insight during the day-long event, with Penn Engineering students mentoring Philly students and demonstrations from community partners.
“STEM Field Day was created to help break down traditional ideas and barriers associated with rigorous STEM subjects by combining team-based physical activities and interactive STEM workshops to promote relevant and engaging interdisciplinary learning,” said Chanda Jefferson, Director of Community Engagement and Outreach at Penn Engineering. “We want students from the Philadelphia community to know that STEM connects with their lives and that there is a place for them in STEM.”