Program Overview

The African American Ethnic Academy and the BioPharmaceutical Technology Center Institute (BTCI), both 501(c)(3) non-profit educational organizations, have collaborated for ten years in offering "A Celebration of Life," a summer science program for upper elementary and middle school students. The primary goal of the Academy/BTCI partnership is to support African American students’ interest in the life sciences and provide them with the tools for success in school.

A long-term objective is to increase the number of minority students who enroll in -- and successfully complete -- high school science courses, and who eventually choose to pursue scientific careers. In addition to developing knowledge and abilities associated with scientific investigations in field and laboratory settings (e.g. formulating and testing hypotheses, utilizing problem-solving skills, learning and demonstrating correct techniques), students are challenged to develop their communication skills (e.g. through teamwork, journals, presentations to parents and family members). They are also encouraged to express and develop their creativity in numerous ways. Information regarding African-American scientists throughout history is shared, and role models of color are key players in program activities.

Next summer, two "A Celebration of Life" sessions will be offered:

I. Grades 3-5: July 6 - 16, 2010, 8:30-12:00, M-F mornings
Healthy Planet!

II. Grades 6-8: July 19 - 30,  2010, 8:30-12:00,  M-F mornings
Healthy Planet!

"A Celebration of Life" is financially supported through grants, donations, fundraising activities, and significant in-kind contributions from the Academy and BTCI (staff time; supplies and materials; and, use of state-of-the art training laboratory facilities in a corporate environment), as well as program volunteers.  Funds are currently being sought for the ongoing development and implementation of "A Celebration of Life" programs, as well as the dissemination of associated informational materials. An initial grant from The Evjue Foundation significantly assisted the Academy in launching its Saturday morning program, which has operated successfully during the academic year for ten years. Beginning in summer 1996, the Academy, in collaboration with BTCI, expanded its efforts to offer half-day summer sessions to upper elementary and middle school students. Over the years, grant support has been provided by the Madison Community Foundation, The Evjue Foundation, Inc., Ronald McDonald House Charities in Madison and the NASA  Wisconsin Space Grant Consortium.