STONY BROOK, N.Y., June 10, 2009 – Stony Brook University received a $493,000 grant from the Toyota USA Foundation to provide workshops and laboratory opportunities for secondary school teachers and students in biology, chemistry, earth science, physics and mathematics. This project builds upon the innovative work of the Center for Science and Mathematics Education (CESAME) at the University, which has the major goal of increasing the quality, quantity and diversity of the nation’s science and mathematics talent pool.
“CESAME has long term, solid and productive relationships with the Long Island educational community,” said Dr. David Bynum, Professor of Biochemistry and Cell Biology and Director of CESAME. “This award resonates with our long term strategy of working closely with schools to provide enhanced opportunities for both teachers and students.”
“During these challenging economic times, we are pleased to support these excellent programs,” said Patricia Salas Pineda, group vice president of Toyota Motor North America. “These grants are an investment in the future of our teachers and young people and will give them invaluable skills for the future.”
The project will be directed by Dr. Keith Sheppard, Director of Science Education and Associate Professor of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, who is the Principal Investigator for the award.
“We have had great success in offering state-of-the-art biotechnology teaching modules over the last fifteen years,” stated Dr. Sheppard. “This grant will allow us to expand our offerings to include laboratory modules in chemistry, physics, earth sciences and mathematics. Teachers can then use these activities in their schools and bring their students to the University for similar experiences.”
“There is a national need to attract talented teachers and students into science and mathematics,” stated, Mark Aronoff, Professor of Linguistics and Associate Provost of the University. “Stony Brook University and CESAME are committed to leading the way.”
