Bishop Jimmy Nunn has sparked a true transformation at Lydia Patterson Institute.

Board members,students, and guests gathered Oct. 14, at the Lydia Patterson Institute for the official dedication of the Bishop Jimmy Nunn STEM Makerspace and Robotics Lab.” This is the speech by student Fernando Zapot

I stand here filled with gratitude and excitement as we celebrate the realization of a dream that started as a simple idea and has since grown into something far greater than we ever imagined. When the robotics team first came together, we had one goal in mind: to create a dedicated space where we could work on our robot— an environment where creativity and innovation could thrive.

But as we started planning, discussing, and brainstorming, it became clear that our vision could be bigger. The more we talked about the tools and resources we would need, the more we realized that these weren’t just resources for robotics—they were resources for everyone. Why limit the possibilities to just one team? We knew this could be an opportunity to create something that would benefit not only us, but the entire student body.

And so, the idea of a simple robotics workspace evolved into something much more - a makerspace. A place where anyone with an idea or a curiosity can come to experiment, learn, and build. A place where students from all walks of life, not just those in robotics, can gather to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and learn from one another. Equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, and milling devices, this space represents more than just technology. It represents possibility.

Gratitude.

LPI student Fernando Zapot and others offer sincere thanks to Bishop Jimmy Nunn at the dedication of his namesake, the Bishop Jimmy Nunn Makerspace and Robotics Lab at Lydia Patterson Institute.

Now, we have come together thanks to Bishop Nunn’s generous gift, ready to begin the renovation and create this makerspace for our school. This incredible contribution is what makes this vision a reality, and for that, we are deeply thankful. Soon, our school will have a place where students can create, innovate, and explore their ideas in ways we’ve never been able to before.

Today, this makerspace stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, shared vision, and the belief that innovation is for everyone. It will serve not only the robotics team but all students, fostering creativity across every discipline and interest. Whether you’re building a robot, designing an art piece, or creating a new invention, this space is yours.

I’d like to take a moment to thank everyone who helped make this possible—our teachers, administrators, donors, and, of course, the students who believed in this vision. And a special thank you to Bishop Nunn, whose generosity has sparked the beginning of something truly transformational for our school.

This is just the beginning. As we move forward, I hope this space becomes a hub of creativity, a place where students from all backgrounds and interests feel welcome to explore, learn, and create. I can’t wait to see the incredible things that will come out of this makerspace.

Thank you!

Rev. Derrek Belase and Bishop Jimmy Nunn presented a check for $26,000 to help fund the makerspace. This funding was supported by a special offering taken up during Annual Conference 2024.