Beakers 'N' Sneakers event receives recognition

An event that introduced girls to chemistry activities has won recognition for Emporia State University and the American Chemical Society-Wichita section.

"Beakers and Sneakers" was one of three national finalists in the "Outstanding Event for a Specific Audience" category at the sixth annual ChemLuminary Awards in Philadelphia , Pa.

The awards presentation was in conjunction with the American Chemical Society 228 th National Meeting.

"We were one of three finalists in the outstanding event for a specific audience award. Our specific audience was the Flint Hills Girl Scout Council," said Dr. Malonne Davies, Assistant Professor of Chemistry/Science Education. "We received a Certificate of Excellence award, for our event."

The award recognized local sections that have demonstrated exemplary performance in the development and implementation of outstanding activities in support of National Chemistry Week.

"Beakers 'N' Sneakers brought 393 Girl Scouts of all ages to the ESU campus on Nov. 15 2003 . The girls participated in hands-on chemistry activities to earn their special ACS National Chemistry Week patch.

The event was a combination of five chemical activities (Beakers) and a scavenger hunt (Sneakers). Scouts rotated through five hands-on chemistry activities. All 15 concurrent sessions (3 each of the 5 activities) were lead by ESU faculty members and Student Affiliate members. They were assisted by 80 volunteers; including university students form chemistry and elementary education classes as well as some of the senior and Cadet Scouts. In addition 110 Scout leaders and other adult sponsors attended.

The "Sneakers" portion, planned by the Girl Scout Council, required the Scouts to decipher clues to treasures in the Rock Garden, the Geology Museum and other sites of interest on the ESU campus.

The Beakers portion of the event was planned by Linda Landis, Assistant Director of the ESU Science and Mathematics Education Center , and ACS members Dr. Malonne Davies and Dr. Art Landis. These three were also very instrumental in getting the "Beakers 'N' Sneakers" event nominated for the ChemLuminary Award.

"In terms of participation, "Beakers 'N' Sneakers" had the biggest turnout ever," said Dr. Art Landis, Head of the Chemistry Department.

According to Davies, the large turnout was better than the Girl Scout council expected.

Last Updated July 2, 2007>