Marquette University to host 5th annual sySTEM Now! Conference

Marquette University will host the 5^th annual sySTEM Now! (Strengthening our Youth in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Conference on Tuesday, Oct. 21, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Alumni Memorial Union, 1442 W. Wisconsin Ave. sySTEM Now! is a consortium of businesses, concerned citizens, educational institutions and public officials dedicated to improving the quality, quantity and diversity of youth entering the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) in Milwaukee.

The theme of this year’s conference is “Emerging Opportunities Ahead.” Dr. Irving Pressley McPhail, executive vice president and chief operating officer of the National Action Council of Minorities in Engineering, will deliver the keynote address, “A Call to Action: Confronting the ‘New’ American Dilemma for Scientific and Technological Leadership,” at 12:45 p.m.

The conference will explore ways to motivate the next generation of scientists, engineers and technology leaders by discussing the role of education and public and private employer perspectives.  Presentations throughout the day will include sessions on Project Lead the Way, STEM and the green economy, social consciousness and STEM and the STEM Equity Pipeline.  A full conference schedule is available at www.esmke.com.

“Marquette is committed to expanding the pool of young people interested in pursuing STEM careers,” Stan Jaskolski, Opus Dean of the Marquette College of Engineering, said. “Our global economy demands more engineers trained in problem solving, collaboration and communication, as well as the principles of engineering. Initiatives like the sySTEM Now! Conference, the Badger State Science and Engineering Fair and our academies for students ages 6 to 18 help us get youth excited about the discovery process that is at the core of engineering.”

The conference is free for students; however, there is a fee for others who wish to attend. All participants must register for this event by calling (414) 297-7239 or visiting www.esmke.com.

Nomination forms for this year’s STEMMY Awards recognizing organizations and individuals that demonstrate unparalleled commitment to promoting STEM awareness are available at www.esmke.com. The awards will be presented during the conference luncheon.

Interested media should contact Mary Pat Pfeil in the Office of Marketing and Communication at (414) 288-4719.