Family Science and Engineering Nights ignite STEM passion across Oregon schools

Since the early 2000s, Family Science and Engineering Nights have brought science and discovery to elementary schools across western Oregon. With bubbling beakers, cryogenic demonstrations and gooey gel beads, these interactive evenings make STEM come alive for countless families — thanks in large part to longtime co-organizer Margie Haak.

Each year, about 20 schools host the free, hands-on events, reaching more than 50 families at a time — many from rural communities and under-resourced schools. And each year, Oregon State undergraduates, graduate students and faculty volunteer to lead experiments designed to spark excitement about science, technology, engineering and math among elementary-aged children and their families.

The goal: to show kids that college and science are within their reach.

“I think it’s important because this is one of the next generations of scientists and engineers,” said Haak, a senior instructor II in the Department of Chemistry. “Keeping them excited about science and what they could do, and that they can do it, is important for society in general.”

Haak has helped run the event since its inception as part of a National Science Foundation grant along with Willie (Skip) Rochefort, associate professor of chemical engineering, the other co-organizer.

Margie Haak works with elementary students.

Margie Haak shows elementary students a dry ice demonstration.

Over the years, the program has grown significantly. Requests from schools quickly fill up open slots, and many schools ask to host the event annually. This growing demand makes volunteers even more critical.

“The most amazing thing to me is that our undergraduate and graduate students take time out of their busy schedules to volunteer because they believe it’s important to connect with younger generations,” Haak said.

Volunteer Maryam Nikpayam, a graduate student in the Department of Chemistry, enjoys watching the students start to love science.

"It’s all about those small, real moments — when kids turn to their parents with wide eyes and a big “wow!” and you can actually see curiosity spark," she said.

Every activity is designed to be hands-on and engaging. “Gel beads are always a favorite. I think because they’re so squishy and gooey and you get to take them home,” she said. “Students also like the cryogenic demos — the liquid nitrogen and dry ice. It’s fun to see cabbage being smashed.”

Donations help cover transportation costs and supplies. Schools are never asked to pay. “They often don’t have a budget. All we ask is they have tables for us when we get there,” Haak said.

In the end, Family Science and Engineering Nights are about more than one night of fun experiments. They’re about building connections that last.

“Hopefully we are encouraging everyone, the student volunteers and participants, to find ways to get involved and volunteer their love of science,” Haak said.