Soybean Science Challenge Roars into STEM Fest

by Dr. Lynn Wilson - November 1, 2023

The Soybean Science Challenge hosted a table for Thunder Over the Rock Air Show and STEM Fest at the Little Rock Air Force Base on Friday, October 20th.

The event celebrated science, technology, engineering, and math for grades K-12. Over 5,000 students and 600 teachers, plus more than 60 exhibitors attended the event held in the central hangar.

What is STEM fest?

The event’s purpose was to connect students and educators with role models and future career paths in the STEM area.

Diedre Young, Soybean Science Challenge coordinator, Rita Watson, Dr. Lynn Wilson, and Ashlyn Ussery spoke with over 1,500 students and teachers. “Where’s the Soy” game was the star feature at the table. Students guessed what items (chick feed, foam pillow, premium dog food, chicken soup, caulking material, newspaper ink, and a high protein shake) shown by extension staff contained soy.

Over 1,000 sunglasses along with hundreds of other soybean-related and agricultural materials were distributed. Science teachers received information about the Arkansas regional and state science fairs and the free educational resources available through The Soybean Science Challenge program.

During the afternoon, the Thunderbirds roared overhead during a practice session - so exciting to see and deafening to hear. Voice and ear recovery therapy after the event was recommended for extension staff.