More than 500 middle school students, mostly from Chicago-area public schools, attended
"What's Next: Future Science for Future Scientists" at the city's Navy Pier on Oct. 14.
The educational event was organized by the DOE headquarters together with Fermilab and
Argonne National Laboratory, and was hosted by Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham.
The students got a chance to meet scientists from 21 national laboratories and research institutions,
and to learn science facts by having fun with hands-on activities. Nine of the activities were
offered by Fermilab, including the Cryogenics Show by Mr. Freeze (aka Jerry Zimmerman, of PPD).
"It all came out very well, thanks to all the wonderful help we had," said Spencer Pasero (Education
Office), who led the Fermilab team with Susan Dahl. "Having the scientists and docents involved
is part of what makes our education program special," he said.
At least 25 Fermilab scientists and docents were on hand to help make the event a success.
"We concentrated on presenting hands-on activities that convey the ideas Fermilab scientists study,
and basic concepts and methods of particle acceleration and detection,"
said Education Office head Marge Bardeen.
"What's Next" was the first in a series that will take place yearly at different locations
around the country, as part of the DOE's new Scientists Teaching and Reaching Students (STARS) initiative.
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