On November 25, 2024, 21 third to fifth-grade students from Paschal Sherman Indian School participated in an IGNITE Virtual Show-and-Tell Panel. This engaging session introduced students to the possibilities within STEM and professional careers. The event featured Sarah Potter, Founder of Potters Mixed Bag LLC, as the Lead Panelist, alongside Shannon Walker, Strategic Planning Consultant at Elise Enablement Services, and Diana Vicezar, Product Manager at Microsoft, who facilitated. Rebekah Luce, Project Manager at Seattle Children’s, provided technical support as the Tech Host.
The students asked thoughtful and personal questions, such as what the Panelists liked most and least about school, what they enjoyed doing at the students’ age, and what they aspired to be when they were younger. The Panelists shared heartfelt advice, encouraging students to embrace curiosity, seek new opportunities, and value their communities and connections. They emphasized the importance of exploring interests to discover what they enjoy and cautioned against letting fear hold them back from pursuing new experiences.
The session was highly interactive, with students lining up eagerly to ask questions, showcasing their enthusiasm and engagement. Katie Quintasket, the participating Educator, expressed that the event was an excellent experience for the students and highlighted their active participation.
Volunteers praised the session for its smooth organization, engaged students, and dynamic group of Panelists. Many expressed a strong interest in participating in future IGNITE events, reflecting the program’s ability to build community and inspire the next generation. This event successfully demonstrated the power of curiosity and connection, leaving a lasting impression on the IGNITE Students and Volunteers alike.
“This event made me excited to learn more about STEM.”
3rd Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me because I got to hear about what the Panelists have done, and I learned that I can do things in STEM, too. I liked learning about how they dealt with challenges they faced along the way.”
4th Grade IGNITE Student
“It inspired me, and I liked hearing the volunteers talk about my favorite subjects!“
4th Grade IGNITE Student
“Today was awesome, and I liked learning more about everything.”
3rd Grade IGNITE Student
“This made me excited because STEM’s fun. Thank you!”
3rd Grade IGNITE Student
STUDENTS SURVEYED FOLLOWING PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT REPORTED...
94%
INTERESTED IN STEM
69%
KNOW MORE ABOUT STEM CAREERS & THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN STEM
75%
FEEL MORE CONFIDENT
IN PURSUING STEM
90%
GAINED PERSPECTIVE & FEEL MORE HOPEFUL ABOUT THE FUTURE
Thank you to our IGNITE Volunteers and Educators:
- Sarah Potter
- Shannon Walker
- Diana Vicezar
- Rebekah Luce
- Katie Quintasket
About IGNITE Worldwide:
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at igniteworldwide.org.