Schools in the Bay Area Take Part in Fifth Annual Gladstone Open House

At the Gladstone Institutes, inspiring and educating the next generation of scientists is a top priority, for when researchers share their knowledge with young minds, they contribute to a legacy that will help shape the future of scientific innovation.

To further this objective, on March 23, 2016, Gladstone opened its doors to 130 high school students and teachers from 10 public and private schools across the San Francisco Bay Area for the fifth annual open house event. During the day, students visited laboratories and engaged with scientists who hosted demonstrations specific to their areas of research. Over 35 volunteers from the Gladstone community participated, including graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, laboratory managers, and many departments in administration.

“This year was definitely our best open house to date,” said Paul Li, Gladstone’s science education specialist who helped coordinate the day. “I think this event proves our commitment not only to our science, but to supporting the aspirations and education of these students.”

This year, Shannon Noonan, Gladstone’s education and community partnerships manager, vastly expanded the number of high schools included in the open house, including schools with curricula focused on health and biotechnology. For example, 18 students from Summit Shasta, a health-focused charter high school in Daly City, took part in this year’s event for the first time. Also in attendance were five public high schools with comprehensive biotech-focused programs. These programs are increasingly popular in high schools across the country, indicating a growing emphasis on the advanced sciences. Paired with access to scientific research institutions such as Gladstone, these programs can unlock significant potential in young students and inspire them to enter the sciences.

In addition to witnessing demonstrations on stem cell growth, HIV-preventive therapies, and other cutting-edge research, students and volunteers engaged in meaningful exchanges with one another throughout the day. Students who described career goals in the sciences received advice from volunteers about pursuing internships and academic programs that fit their interests. Scientific volunteers also gained experience sharing their research with non-scientists, a challenging but important undertaking that will improve their ability to communicate the important work they are conducting.

Gladstone is excited to support high school students in the Bay Area and to encourage them to pursue careers in research and the sciences. Since 2012, the outreach team has hosted the open house to expose students to scientific research through a wide variety of events and activities.

“While these programs are undoubtedly important for these young students, they are also extremely rewarding for our scientists and our community,” said Noonan. “Everyone who participates in these programs contributes to the future of biomedical research and discovery.”