Our STEM in Motion Convening and Volunteer Appreciation Event served as a reminder that behind every spark of curiosity, every moment of hands-on discovery, and every “aha!” a student experiences, there stands a dedicated volunteer. This year, our volunteers showed up and showed out!
The impact of their commitment in the 2024-2025 school year is nothing short of phenomenal. 491 volunteers generously poured a combined 2,027 hours of their time into STEM programs across our region. That’s like dedicating more than 84 full days of collective effort – channeling immense energy, invaluable expertise, and boundless heart directly into classrooms, competitions, workshops, and vital mentorships.
Their invaluable hours helped fuel:
- Thousands of STEM in a Bag kit distributions, bringing hands-on learning home.
- Inspiring career expos and interactive events, broadening horizons.
- Transformative Me & My Math Mentor sessions in bilingual settings, building confidence.
- Thrilling robotics competitions and dynamic science fairs, celebrating innovation.
- Essential teacher support and classroom enrichment, empowering educators.
- And crucial representation and role modeling in STEM careers, showing students what’s possible!
It was never just about the time on a clock. It was about the profound impact – the tangible difference each volunteer creates, setting off a powerful ripple effect across our community.
Honoring Our 2025 STEM Volunteer Awardees:
During our celebration, we had the immense privilege of shining a spotlight on individuals and organizations who truly embodied the spirit of our mission this year. They weren’t just recognized for their hours, but for the inspiring way they gave them:
- STEM Spark: Cecilia Jimenez, Garver – A new volunteer who jumped in with immediate and incredibly meaningful impact, igniting enthusiasm from day one.
- STEM Luminary: Bernadette Ward – A steady, guiding light whose consistent presence and unwavering strength empowered multiple events to shine.
- STEM Supernova: Jon Maslen, TD Williamson – Always ready to blast off with innovative ideas and brilliant solutions, truly a supernova of problem-solving.
- STEM Catalyst: Mike Miller, Tulsa Engineering Foundation – A true master connector, creating powerful bridges between people and possibilities within the STEM ecosystem.
- STEM Mentor of the Year: Tierney Bryce – A consistent, compassionate guide who patiently nurtured young learners, watching their confidence blossom.
- Full STEM Ahead: Dr. Javen Weston, The University of Tulsa – For his deepened involvement and unwavering, long-term commitment that propels our mission forward.
- STEM Counts!: Cody Burnett, Garver – Our top volunteer this year, dedicating an incredible 33+ hours of service – a true testament to going above and beyond.
And our well-deserved STEM Service Partner of the Year:
- John Zink – Recognized for their intentional and invaluable bilingual Math Mentor support at Ellen Ochoa Elementary School, coupled with year-round dedication to student success.
These incredible individuals and teams exemplify what it means to lead with love, show up with purpose, and serve with the profound belief that every student deserves access to life-changing STEM opportunities.
To every single volunteer, award winner, partner, and friend who made this year not just possible, but extraordinary: thank you, from the bottom of our hearts. You truly are the vibrant heartbeat of Tulsa Regional STEM Alliance, and we are so grateful for you!
