The Miami Science Museum (MiaSci) recently was awarded a $75,000 grant by Chase to implement the Girls SPICE (Science Program Inspiring Creative Exhibits) project.
The grant will allow the museum to work with Charles R. Drew Middle School’s Visual and Performing Arts Magnet Program to implement an after school and summer program targeted to female students in grades 7-8. The Girls SPICE project addresses the need to cultivate diversity in preparing the next generation of female scientists.
“Our nation’s need for a world-class science and technology workforce has never been greater, requiring that all members of our population have the opportunity and the resources to pursue successful science and technology-related studies and careers,” said Judy Brown, EdD, senior vice president of education, Miami Science Museum.
“The Girls SPICE project addresses this need and will create a model for engaging middle school girls in science by utilizing their interest in art to design and build museum exhibits related to science topics of interest to them,” she said.
“We are honored to provide the Miami Science Museum with a grant of financial support to make science a part of the learning experience for young girls,” said Guillermo G. Castillo, president of Chase Commercial Banking in South Florida. “Engaging female students in science education is very much necessary if we want to provide the best opportunities for our work force to compete in a global market, and we look forward to seeing more female scientists in the future.”
In 2010, JPMorgan Chase Foundation donated $4 million to Florida-based charities.
Miami Science Museum is located at 3280 S. Miami Ave. The museum is open every day from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Admission is free for MiaSci members and children under 3; students (with valid ID), seniors (62 and older) and children 3-12, $10.95; adults are $14.95. Parking is free.
For more information about the museum visit online at www.miasci.org/blog or call 305-646-4200.
