C-STEM Museum Exhibit: Becoming to Empowering Progress in STEM African American mathematicians, scientists, and inventors have contributed to our Nation’s greatness and beyond for hundreds of years. From Dr. Daniel Hale Williams performing the first prototype open-heart surgery to Hadiyah Nicole-Green’s cancer treatment research using lasers and nanoparticles, the natural artistic expression embedded in the scientific approach is evident. This public art exhibition explores both the STEM contributions of blacks in STEM from the past, connections to present popular culture, and looking to the future of youth in STEM through the lens of an institution that both
uplifts and connects the STEM and arts community, C-STEM Teacher and Student Support Services, Inc., whose motto is, “Everyone is an Artist and an Engineer™”. There is a need to write a new history for African Americans contribution and inspiration to STEM. This is one way to commemorate and connect the evolution of C-STEM to African Americans since 1619. The acknowledgement of African Americans resilience and contributions to STEM, past and present, through the lens of C-STEM is significant. There is a need to educate the public of the contributions C-STEM has made standing on the shoulders of those who have made it possible to think-it, dream-it, and do-it. The
C-STEM Museum Exhibit will travel, each time honoring the long-lasting legacy of African Americans in STEM, current day contributions of African American in STEM, and continue to enlighten the public long-term with evergreen exhibit components. The Exhibit offers a diverse range of expressive pieces and images that intersect with communication, science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and art. This contemporary art exhibit will address social issues and diverse themes regarding the transformative power of a high-quality STEM education, exposure, and opportunity. A variety of media techniques will be utilized to tell the rich history and stories. Further, as
the exhibit travels, it will be attached to educational programs and community outreach events. It will be a distinguished yet inviting exhibit, welcoming reflection from 1619 to the present serving as an educational focal point for minority, female, and economically disenfranchised communities. The goals of the art exhibit are to:
• To inspire reflection on a 400 year history of Blacks in STEM
• Encapsulate C-STEM intersections with community
• Create Space for a more expansive exhibition to be Funded