Many of society’s most pressing issues like COVID-19, climate change, and water security are scientific in nature. This creates an opportunity to merge STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) with social justice and principles of community engagement to drive advancements that will shape our communities and our future. Our Future Is Science (OFIS) aims to inspire future STEM leaders by connecting science with social and community issues.
MISSION
Our Future Is Science is an initiative of Aspen Institute Science & Society Program that aims to position societally minded youth as leaders and innovators who will push science forward in the 21st century.
GOALS
Spark curiosity and passion about the connection between science and social justice among youth who face inequities, are underserved, and/or are from historically marginalized groups often underrepresented in STEM education and careers.
Accelerate students’ participation in the sciences to equip them to link their societal and scientific interests to tangible educational and career opportunities in STEM disciplines that may ultimately impact their communities.
PILLARS
Our Future is Science has four pillars:
Mentorship Program
This 8-month virtual program connects high-schoolers in the United States with STEM graduate students to explore how science can be used to improve local community issues with a social justice lens. Key features include:
Evolving curriculum with social justice resources and activities on climate and environment, AI, health disparities, climate, data, and more.
Weekly Mentorship Team Meetings for learning, engagement, and career exploration.
Monthly Community Talks with science professionals.
Capstone Projects in which mentees create evidence-based solution for a problem in their community.
Ambassador Program
The Ambassador Program is designed for exceptional alumni to work delve deeper into chosen community issues.
Ambassadors also engage with Mentees and Mentors by providing feedback on Capstone Projects, and hosting workshops. They create multi-media projects that use the scientific process to solve community issues.
Champions for Science & Social Justice
Champions for Science & Social Justice offer opportunities for exceptional qualified applicants unable to join the Mentorship Program due to the program’s capacity.
Educational Media Campaigns
Youth share their visions, in the form of short videos submitted on TikTok or Instagram, for how science can be used to solve a challenge in their community, with cash prizes for top entries.
