Science Museum heads to the ballpark for UO STEM night

The UO Museum of Natural and Cultural History is taking it to the ballgame. On Aug. 27, the museum’s educators will set up shop at PK Park, giving fans a sampling of their national award-winning, hands-on science outreach programs.

The event, sponsored by Student Services and Enrollment Management, is designed to inspire participants to delve into studies and careers related to science, technology, engineering, and math — collectively known as the STEM fields.  

“We want to celebrate and share what goes on under the university’s STEM umbrella with future scientists, engineers and mathematicians,” said Susi Thelen, the division’s outreach events coordinator.

Thelen said the Duck will be there to welcome fans and families to the event.

At the museum’s tables, attendees can explore volcanoes, earthquakes and other geologic processes; learn how the first Oregonians built homes and hunting tools thousands of years ago; and participate in a kid-friendly engineering challenge.

“The museum’s outreach program travels to classrooms, libraries and events around Oregon, making science accessible and fun for people all over the state,” said Ann Craig, the museum’s public programs director. “We’re excited to partner with Student Services and Enrollment Management and share these programs with local baseball fans of all ages.”

The UO campus community and friends are encouraged to join in the fun. Discounted tickets are available now. Gates open at 6 p.m. and the game starts at 7:05 p.m.

—By Hannah Kruse, Museum of Natural and Cultural History