After the Peanut Foundation to raise funds for STEAM programs
The After the Peanut Foundation, Jazz & STEAM Night fundraiser has returned and will be held Thursday, March 23, 2023, at The Grand Ballroom in Joliet Union Station 50 E Jefferson Street from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm in downtown Joliet.
Dr. Natalie Coleman, PhD. and CEO of After the Peanut Foundation leads the organization that has provided programs for STEAM students since 2014. The implementation of these programs has helped correct STEAM diversity gaps through hands-on science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics programs that foster creativity and exploration while teaching collaboration, problem-solving, critical thinking, and building resilience.
In partnership with Lewis University, funds raised at the JAZZ STEAM/Night fundraiser will help support After the Peanut programs for students ages 7 to 14, that include the STEAM Club, that provides students with engaging experiences, this year’s Club students will learn coding, drone programming and more. The foundation’s anticipated Summer STEAM Camp will offer students hands-on, real-world, active STEAM activities including engineering, space science, game development, and robotics, just some of what the camp will offer students this summer. Another program is STEAM Wellness that offers mental health, wellness, and learning about STEAM careers and the STEAM CEO program provides mentoring, education, and internship opportunities.
The anticipated event will recognize many supporters who understand the importance of equitable education and innovative thinking. The evening will highlight professionals, organizations, and students that are committed to STEAM innovation to help bring awareness to STEAM disparities. The Peanut’s STEAM Innovation Award will be presented to notable community leaders that are committed to their craft and work to close the gap of impartial education.
The honorees for this year include Edna Brass, Retired Educator and STEAM Advocate, Leslie Newbon, Manager of Marketing and Community Relations, Silver Cross Hospital, Kate Shafer, Mechanical Availability Lead, Exxon Mobil, and Stephen Franklin, Teen Program Director of the YMCA for its commitment to innovative STEAM programs and opportunities. The final awardee is Dr. Lauren Rentfro, for his lifelong commitment to equitable STEAM education and invaluable insight on K-16 educator development.
Live jazz by award-winning saxophonist Trey Daniels will be the entertainment for the evening. Charity auctioneer Jim Miller will lead a charity auction. The night will include STEAM Stations, open bar, and the ATP STEAM Innovation Awards presentation.
Tickets can be purchased at www.afterthepeanuts.com.
The After the Peanut Foundation is a 501(c)(3) committed to providing equitable STEAM opportunities for youth. Founded in 2014, the George Washington Carver-inspired organization is an educational solution-driven company focusing on the power of knowledge and education in the face of adversity and challenges. The goal is to transform communities by increasing awareness of STEAM careers and providing engaging, innovative, and real-world STEAM opportunities for K-12 students. The mission supports outreach to minorities, girls, families of veterans and students from Title 1 schools.
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