12 local students win full-tuition scholarships to Wright State at Big Hoopla STEM Challenge

Wright State University, a proud sponsor of the Big Hoopla’s STEM Challenge, awarded full-in-state tuition scholarships to 12 students at the STEM Challenge event on March 16 in the Student Union.

The students were also recognized during the NCAA First Four games on March 18.

Families and students were thrilled to learn they had earned full-tuition scholarships to Wright State.

“Joy, a lot of joy,” said Demetrius Taylor, whose son Ezekiel was awarded a full-tuition scholarship because of his love for basketball. “This makes us really excited for his future.”

Wright State President Sue Edwards highlighted the university’s commitment to inspiring young learners in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

“Wright State is excited to inspire young learners’ love of science, technology, engineering and mathematics through our partnership with the Big Hoopla’s STEM Challenge,” Edwards said. “Wright State is proud to award these life-changing scholarships to 12 promising students as part of our commitment to developing our region’s next generation of innovators and leaders.”

Wright State partnered with the Big Hoopla to introduce students to STEM concepts through engaging activities and demonstrations.

The annual STEM Challenge attracted 1,500 children to Wright State to explore science shows and hands-on STEM exhibits presented by regional and national partners.

“Basketball is the perfect draw to get kids involved with STEM,” said Kevin Cornell, a two-time Wright State graduate known as Mister C, who performed science experiments at the event.

The 12 students who were awarded full-in-state tuition scholarships to Wright State were recognized during the NCAA First Four games on March 18.

Wright State awarded full in-state tuition scholarships to basketball shootout winners: a male and female student in each grade division (K–2, 3–4, 5–6 and 7–8). Four additional winners were randomly selected through a raffle. Students had to complete 80% of the STEM passport to be eligible for the scholarship.

This marks the second year Wright State sponsored the STEM Challenge and the first year the university hosted both STEM event and the Big Hoopla 4 Miler on the Dayton Campus.

The 4 Miler and STEM Challenge kicked off the Big Hoopla’s celebration of events leading to the NCAA First Four.

Wright State’s College of Health, Education and Human Services, the College of Engineering and Computer Science, the College of Science and Mathematics and the Raj Soin College of Business participated in the STEM Challenge, offering numerous hands-on activities and giveaways.