Annual Events
Science Alive!
Science Alive! is an annual event held by the St Joseph County Library aimed at growing an enthusiasm for all kinds of science in both children and adults. The past several years, the BGSO has hosted a table to great success, and we will always be in need of more hands.
Watch for emails from the BGSO or contact the Outreach Chair for information on how to get involved!
Gift Drive for Women’s Shelter of YWCA of North Central Indiana
Every Christmas for more than 25 years, Prof. David Hyde organizes a gift drive wherein "the Department has donate[s] numerous gifts for the women and their children that spent the holiday season in the YWCA-sponsored homes (Abused Women’s Shelter and the Substance Abuse Home). For many of these children, this [is] their only source of holiday presents." Watch out for the emails and flyers when the holiday season is coming up, and organize a gift-wrapping party with your lab to contribute to the department's efforts. As Prof. Hyde says, "While the children are experiencing the turmoil of leaving home, they are also nervous that Santa may not find them Christmas Day. We can guarantee these individuals will not be forgotten during the holidays."
Northern Indiana Regional Science and Engineering Fair
The NIRSEF, held in late February to early March each year, is a regional competition for K-12 students with hundreds of entrants in the areas of science and engineering, ranging from at-home independently designed experiments and prototypes to cutting-edge research under the supervision of research professors.
Each year, the Judges' Director solicits undergraduates, graduate students, post docs, technicians, and professors in the College of Science and College of Engineering to volunteer as judges for NIRSEF entries. It's a fantastic opportunity to interact directly with young students with strong drive and interest STEM fields, giving them valuable critique and lessons in research.
If interested, contact the Judges' Director or watch out for an email in early to mid February.