Dr. Sandra Hernandez (By: Christopher Rivers)
On Jan. 12 CSUEB and The San Francisco Foundation hosted a forum on "Moving the Needle: Emerging Trends in Math and Science Education," bringing more than 50 representatives from regional foundations, corporations, and school districts together at CSUEB’s Oakland Center.
Dr. Sandra Hernández, president and CEO of the San Francisco Foundation, and CSUEB President Mohammad Qayoumi gave opening remarks, and Dean Carolyn Nelson of the College of Education and Allied Studies served as moderator for two panels, each followed by an audience discussion and reaction.
In the first round table, the group addressed Using Math, Science, and P-20 Continuum Program Models to Drive Education Equity, Social Mobility, and Civic Engagement. Panelists included
The second discussion, on Using Math and Science Programs to Drive Regional Economic Vitality and Human and Intellectual Capital Development, began with a focus on STEM in the health care industry. The participants were
Reinventing education in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) is one of the key goals of the University of Possibilities campaign, and the presidents opening remarks emphasized that students will need critical STEM skills to compete in the global workplace of the future.
Hernández noted after the event, "I listened intently to President Qayoumi's remarks about igniting a student’s intrinsic passion for learning math and science, and was pleasantly surprised by his comment that we should no longer accept as the status quo instructors who stand at a podium and lecture. CSUEB, under President Qayoumi's visionary leadership clearly intends to change the paradigm for institutes of higher education, and they will need and should get support from the entire community to succeed in this transformation."
Thanks to the San Francisco Foundation for their support, and to all who attended for a great conversation!