2023 Annual Report

A letter from the CEO

DR. PATRICE S. JOHNSON

Dear Supporter,

2023 marked Project Scientist's 10-year anniversary, a testament to a decade of empowering and inspiring young minds in the amazing world of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) During the past 10 years due to the support of our incredible partners, we have had the opportunity to serve more than 24,000 girls and 500 teachers in 26 states and Mexico as well as engage with more than 1,200 women STEM professionals

2023 was a year of transition and evolution, proving once again the strength of our mission and the organization's foundational strength. In the past year, Project Scientist had the privilege of serving 4,196 bright and ambitious girls, providing them with transformative STEAM experiences. These girls are not just participants; they are the future scientists, engineers, and innovators who will shape our world.

Our commitment to excellence was evident in the 15,632 STEAM experiences we delivered, each one designed to spark curiosity and foster a love for learning The impact extended beyond the girls themselves, reaching 170 teachers who have been trained through our Teaching Institute By investing in educators, we amplify our reach and create a ripple effect that extends to countless classrooms

In Monterrey, Mexico, we are proud to celebrate the second year of our STEAM Club, bringing the magic of Project Scientist to international shores This expansion speaks to the global significance of our mission and the universal thirst for knowledge and exploration

None of our achievements would be possible without the dedication of our STEM Superstars mentors from various STEM fields who generously give their time and passion to inspire and guide the girls we serve. Their commitment is a testament to the collaborative spirit that drives Project Scientist.

As we move toward greater impact I invite you to dream with us. Our strategic goals include serving 10,000 girls annually across the U.S. and abroad. Without question, we intend to be the spark of inspiration and empowerment for this generation's geniuses and creators Now is the time to break the STEAM ceiling with bold ideas and a courageous commitment to social justice

Dr.

Dr Patrice S Johnson

NUMBERS AT A GLANCE

1,859 15,632

4,196

170 girls participated in our student programming

STEAM education experiences girls benefitted from our student and educator programs

educators trained through the Project Scientist Teaching Institute

ghlights

Launched Project Scientist Teaching Institute

In February 2023, Project Scientist launched the Teaching Institute with the support of Takeda and Cargill. A professional development initiative by teachers for teachers, the Project Scientist Teaching Institute offers hands-on training and teaching strategies for growing students’ STEAM confidence and outcomes The Teaching Institute trains educators on how to create an equitable, culturally responsive, and empowering learning environment for all students. In 2023, we successfully trained 170 teachers from across the United States. We are grateful for our partners and collaborators including Lesley STEAM Labs Hamline University and “We Are” for allowing us to deliver a robust program to teachers.

Team growth and leadership transition

In 2023, Project Scientist marked a significant milestone 10 years of delivering high-quality STEAM education to girls across the United States and Mexico It was during this pivotal moment that our dedicated founder, Sandy Marshall transitioned out of her role to welcome our new Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Patrice S. Johnson. Prior to joining Project Scientist, Dr. Johnson served as Chief Program Officer at Black Girls CODE. With her wealth of experience and passion for equity, she ensures that Project Scientist continues to uphold its mission under her compassionate leadership Additionally, we welcomed numerous new team members, including our Chief of Staff, Director of STEAM Education, Senior Director of Communications, and Development Manager.

Programs & Impact

Project Scientist provides hands-on immersive summer and after-school programs focusing on science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) to girls* ages 4-18 from marginalized and underserved communities. We deliver our programs in partnership with local schools, school districts, nonprofit organizations and STEM Companies Our core student programs are tuitionfree and offer girls a pathway to stay on track in their academic STEM journeys.

SUMMER STEAM LAB AFTER-SCHOOL STEAM CLUB

SCHOLARS TEACHING INSTITUTE

SUMMER STEAM LAB

600 students served

18 expeditions

12 education partners

15 host sites

Summer STEAM Lab is an immersive STEAM education experience, offered in English and Spanish at no cost to girls* ages 4-12 from marginalized and underrepresented communities. Through hands-on science activities and expeditions, we challenge and inspire our students to be innovative scientists and problem solvers In 2023, Project Scientist reached over 600 students across 15 sites thanks to partnerships with 12 educational institutions and support from 9 funding partners. One of the program highlights is the Expedition to our local STEM partners. Last year, we organized 18 expeditions at companies like Albemarle, Boston Scientific, CoreLogic, Pentair, and Trane Technologies, providing students with valuable insights into the STEM industry and the women who drive its success.

90 students served

351 students served

180 students served

Our curriculum is designed to deepen students' understanding of STEM concepts while fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and inquirybased learning. Throughout the summer, our students were immersed in diverse themes such as 3-D Design, Build-A-Bridge, and Computer Science. They participated in problem-based activities that connected theoretical knowledge to real-world applications These activities aimed to help students develop computational thinking, emphasize the engineering design process, identify problems, brainstorm solutions, create prototypes, and evaluate designs. In our Summer STEAM Lab, students experienced hands-on learning in a vibrant STEM campus environment with STEM professionals, gaining insights into the practical aspects of what scientists and engineers do in the field.

Key Program Partners

Black SciGirls, El Sol Academy, Spence Elementary, Hintgen Elementary, St. Paul Public Schools, Irving Schools Foundation, Gethsemane Christian SDA Jr Academy, Raise A Child of the Carolinas, Tyler Independent School District, Central Park Elementary, Huntingtowne Farms Elementary School, Brooklyn Center Community Center, and Laura Jeffrey Academy

AFTER-SCHOOL STEAM CLUB

1,145 students served

6,023 experiences

12 education partners

34 partner sites

Key Program Partners

Allegra Westbrooks Regional Library, Independence

Regional Library, Sugar Creek Library, El Sol Academy, 99th Street, Hidden River Middle School, Hidden Valley

Elementary School, El Sereno Middle School, Devonshire Elementary, McKinley- Learns School

Pasadena, Boys & Girls Club (multiple locations), Devonshire Elementary School, Jackson Park

Elementary School, Fred L Wilson Elementary School, North Kannapolis Elementary School, Shady Brook

Elementary School, Forest Park Elementary School, GW

Carver Elementary School, Rex Mill Middle School, Multnomah Street Elementary School, Devonshire

Elementary School, Raise a Child of the Carolinas, Charlotte Bilingual Preschool, Laura Jeffrey Academy

After-School STEAM Club is an interactive program offered in Spring and Fall to give girls ages 4-12 an opportunity to discover the joy of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math STEAM Club is offered in English and Spanish at no cost in partnership with Title 1 schools and community partners. In 2023, Project Scientist provided 6023 STEAM experiences (hands-on activities, STEM Superstar visits and expeditions to STEM companies) to 1145 students through STEAM Club at 34 partner sites. Students explored exciting themes such as Microbiology, Climate Change, Food Science, Robotics & AI, and Sustainability

One of the distinguishing features of our programs is the opportunity for students to meet and interact with our Superstars, real women with careers in STEM. In 2023, our students heard from inspiring women including author Tenille Bettenhausen, and senior executives like Sharene Pierce (Duke Energy), Sarah Elizabeth McCandless (NASA Jet Propulsion Lab), and Amy Bowman (North Carolina Research Campus)

SCHOLARS

2 cohorts

54 cities

93 scholars

Scholars is an interactive program designed to empower girls ages 13-18, fostering confidence and sparking curiosity. These weekly sessions span 90 minutes over 21 weeks, providing an opportunity for participants to acquire new skills and cultivate a profound comprehension of STEM careers Our Scholars program is offered in Fall and Spring, at no cost to students

In 2023, we served 93 students from 54 cities. Through the program, our scholars had the opportunity to dive into a range of themes such as Career Path exploration, Finance, Sustainability and Climate Change, Building Science, Astronomy, Biology and Anatomy, STEM careers in the Beauty industry. In addition to our carefully curated themes, we also facilitate connections between students and women in STEM role models. This provides them with the invaluable opportunity to see women who they can identify with and to receive the encouragement and guidance they need to dream big

FEATURED SPEAKERS 2023

SONNET DAVIS, NEUROSCIENCE, DENALI THERAPEUTICS

MEREDITH CALVERT, MICROSCOPY & IMAGE ANALYSIS IN NEUROSCIENCE, DENALI THERAPEUTICS

STACY KOLEGRAFF, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF CONSTRUCTION

MANAGEMENT, CAL POLY, SAN LUIS OBISPO

CORIE YAGUSHI, ARCHITECT

LAURA EALY, DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMS AT SAN GABRIEL VALLEY

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

BRITTANY LUDWIG, SOFTWARE ENGINEER, BLUEBEAM

RITA COFIELD, LOS ANGELES AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORIC PLACES

PROJECT, GETTY CONSERVATION INSTITUTE

FAUNA MOORE, ANATOMIST, EXPERIENCE ANATOMY

JAMIE MILLER, TECHNICAL LEADER, DOVE

DELILAH PRZYBYLA, BIOMEDICAL ILLUSTRATOR

EMILY BOHANNON, FLIGHT SYSTEMS ENGINEER, NASA JET

PROPULSION LABORATORY

DR. SARAH VALENCIA, LUNAR PETROLOGIST, NASA GODDARD

SPACE FLIGHT CENTER

JEREE SPICER, CYBERSECURITY ENGINEER, ALLY

SAMANTHA (SAM) RUSSEL, DIGITAL PRODUCT ANALYST, ALLY

NIKKI RICHARDSON, MECHANICAL ENGINEER, TRANE TECHNOLOGIES

REBECCA EAGLETON, SUSTAINABILITY ENGINEER, TRANE TECHNOLOGIES

TEACHING INSTITUTE

3 regions

6 workshops

170 teachers & educators

In 2023, we launched the Project Scientist Teaching Institute, designed to support and upskill educators in incorporating gender and racially equitable STEAM teaching strategies in their classrooms Across Minnesota, North Carolina, and California, we conducted six workshops, training a total of 170 teachers and educators.

Our workshops provided hands-on training, allowing participants to develop a deeper understanding of their students' experiences and access practical curriculum ideas and lesson-planning materials This enabled educators to effectively implement these strategies in their classrooms, growing Project Scientist’s impact exponentially.

I found today's workshop enlightening as it emphasized the need to be intentional about what, how, and who we include in our lessons. It encouraged deeper questioning and highlighted the importance of inclusivity in our classrooms. Ensuring representation from every race and cultural background in our teaching is vital, as students take these values back to their communities, fostering a healthier society ”

Latasha Monford, Instructional Associate & Technology Teacher

The lessons and teaching strategies outlined in the Teaching Institute were perfect for my 5th grade interdisciplinary class My students read two picture books, both provided by Project Scientist to learn the cultural significance of quilting before having lessons on shapes. My students were able to express their creativity by making their own quilts using both the mathematical and cultural concepts they learned in the lesson. This clever introduction to basic geometry kept my students engaged, while allowing them to find the connection between math, art, and humanities. ”

Alicia, K-8 educator

IMPACT

One of our key objectives was to measure and gather data to help inform program design, improve outcomes, and provide valuable information to the greater STEM community In 2023, we partnered with third-party evaluator, Lunaria Solutions, to track, measure, and report our programmatic impact.

Program Participants: In 2023, we served parents, teachers, and students from diverse backgrounds. 71.4% of Project Scientist participants identified as Black, Indigenous, or Other People of Color (BIPOC).

The diagram below breaks down the backgrounds of participants who responded to our surveys.

Focusing on attitudinal development, mentoring, and familial and community engagement, Project Scientist programs create an environment and atmosphere that foster self-discovery and self-confidence, and encourages girls to envision themselves in nontraditional roles and fields A full breakdown of our 2023 program-specific impact can be found here

Program Impact

External research suggests that girls have lower levels of interest in STEM and are exposed less to STEM concepts in school than boys (Gallup). Through Summer STEAM Lab, Scholars, and AfterSchool STEAM Club, girls enhanced their understanding of and interest in STEM. Notably, across all programs, an average of 70% of girls agreed they understand how STEAM is used in their everyday lives. Surrounded by women educators and professionals in STEM fields, girls engaged in age-appropriate conversations about the barriers women may face in these industries Through this exposure, girls were empowered to challenge stereotypes and envision themselves succeeding in STEM fields. These results affirm that Project Scientist’s current curriculum and programmatic design reflect the unique positions of young women and girls exploring STEM.

The Teaching Institute survey results suggest that while teachers are a great conduit for STEAM education, they need support to weave STEAM into their classrooms This has reinforced the need for Project Scientist to continue focusing on equipping educators to establish quality curriculum and teaching standards to support girls engaging with STEAM.

EDUCATION PARTNERS

At Project Scientist, we are committed to empowering communities through education That's why we collaborate closely with local schools, districts, and nonprofits to deliver top-tier STEAM education programs for girls. Our partnership with these educational allies is crucial, as it allows us to directly connect with communities and offer enduring support.

In 2023, we had the opportunity to partner with 31 schools, school districts, and nonprofit organizations in Minnesota, Wisconsin, New York, North Carolina, Georgia, Texas, California and Monterrey, Mexico. The elementary students in Kannapolis City Schools are truly enjoying the Project Scientist Program Our girls have loved the hands-on activities and experiences they would not be able to participate in without the support of Project Scientist Our teachers that have been involved have loved the activities and how easy it is to work with Project Scientist I would recommend this program to anyone who is interested in getting their girls involved in STEAM!

Erin Anderson, Ed.D., Director of Elementary Education and Title I, Kannapolis City Schools

We are full of gratitude to have a partnership with Project Scientist! These classes have sparked an interest in many of our girls. I am excited to see what the future holds for them as they envision themselves as leaders in STEAM. All of this could not have been possible without the support and dedication from the entire Project Scientists staff. Thank you for helping make dreams come true and providing endless opportunities to the girls of our future

Amanda Perez, Multnomah School, LA

Raise a Child of the Carolinas’ (RACC) collaboration with Project Scientist is invaluable and gratifying As an emerging organization, having the opportunity to work alongside one that possesses years of learned experiences, adequate resources, and a commitment to fostering curiosity and passion for STEAM regardless of background or circumstance, Raise a Child has become stronger and more vibrant. Together, we inspire young girls to dream big, break barriers, and pursue their passions with determination and resilience. Project Scientist serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration not just for us but for the lives of those we serve With their continued support, I am confident that we will continue to inspire, educate, and uplift the next generation of female leaders in STEM RACC, Charlotte

31 education partners

CALIFORNIA

El Sol Academy

Los Angeles Unified School District

Garvey School District

San Francisco Unified School District

Hacienda La Puente Unified School District

Santa Ana Unified School District

GEORGIA MEXICO NEW YORK

Clayton County Public Schools

Boys & Girls Club (5 sites)

NORTH CAROLINA TEXAS

Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools

Charlotte Bilingual Preschool

Raise a Child of the Carolinas

Kannapolis City Schools

Union County Public Schools

Gethsemane Christian SDA Junior Academy

Escuela Eva Garza G. / Jose G. Garcia (Apodaca)

MINNESOTA

Saint Paul Public Schools

Laura Jeffrey Academy

Minneapolis Public Schools

Irving Independent School District

WISCONSIN

Tyler Independent School District School District of La Crosse

FUNDING PARTNERS

32 funding partners

Our engagement with STEM companies and their employees is a foundational component of Project Scientist programs. We actively connect with employees through departmental expertise as well as Employee Resource Group (ERG) and Affiliate groups, so our girls meet role models who look like them and who help empower the next generation of STEM leaders to pursue their educational and professional passions.

Project Scientist is incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of our longtime donors, whose generosity has fueled our mission and impact over the years In 2023, we deepened our relationships with supporters such as 3M, Cargill, CoreLogic, Duke Energy, Pentair, Takeda, and Trane Technologies and welcomed new supporters including F5 Foundation, Albemarle, Allstate, Boston Scientific, and Nucor all of whom share our mission and whose support strengthens our resolve to create a more equitable STEM future.

At Trane Technologies, our vision of a sustainable future means having an uplifting and positive impact on people and society. Our long-standing partnership with Project Scientist helps us provide students from underserved communities with an early introduction to STEM and sustainability concepts Our partnership has deepened over the years across the country and into Mexico with our amazing employees and ERG groups providing the inspiration and aspiration of a STEM career We believe that what we choose to invest in today, can help to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to not just dream big but to live out those dreams in the tomorrows yet to come

Deidra Parrish Williams, Director Global Corporate Social Responsibility & Community Affairs & Executive Director, Trane Technologies Foundation

2023 FUNDING PARTNERS

3M

Albemarle

Ally

Arts & Science Counsel (ASC)

Allstate

BASF

Bluebeam

Boston Scientific

Bristol Myers Squibb

Burroughs Wellcome Fund

C.H. Robinson

Capital Group

Cargill

CoreLogic

Cummins

Duke Energy

Edwards Lifesciences

F5 Foundation

Google Fiber

Joseph Drown Foundation

NASA

Nucor

Pentair

PNC Bank

PwC

QTS

Southern California Edison

State Farm

Takeda

Trane Technologies

USC Good Neighbors

Western Digital

Wingstop

We must prepare the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers to drive progress and shape the future – and that starts with investing in STEM We’re excited about our ongoing partnership with Project Scientist which helps build a strong foundation in STEM subjects for girls in underresourced communities Amy Atwood, Vice President, USBU and U.S. Region Communications and Philanthropy, Takeda

VOLUNTEERS

483 volunteers engaged

We are grateful for the 483 STEM Superstars and Volunteers who engaged with our girls in person and virtually. STEM professionals from a range of STEM fields such as Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mathematics, Pharmacology, Food Science, Structural Engineering, Data Analysis, Geology, IT, etc introduced our students to new and exciting STEM careers. Our Superstars shared their experiences, engaged in handson activities with our students, and demonstrated to them that women can achieve their STEM dreams.

In 2023, we welcomed 3 new members from 3M, Trane Technologies and Cargill to our Scientific Advisory Council to help with curriculum development, volunteer recruitment, and advocating for our organization. Seeing the girls’ eyes light up when they realize they are smart, they are strong, and they are beautiful is such a rewarding feeling. Volunteering with Project Scientist gave me immeasurable joy and hope for a brighter future.

Melany Hawkins, Salesforce COE Leader, Information Technology, Volunteer/STEM Superstar

I thought the idea was brilliant and innovative Our ability to come together not only as co-workers and employees of Trane but also as women who understand working in a male-dominated industry We realize that these campers are our future and that the work we are doing now is quite possibly cultivating our world’s next nobel prize physicist or even Trane CEO The IT expedition not only showcased the endless possibilities of technology but also that every and any woman can have a seat at the table.

Paige Madison, IT Accelerated Development Program (ADP), Volunteer/STEM Superstar

FINANCIALS

Program Expenses | $1,175,097

Administrative Expenses* | $585,403

Fund-Development Expenses | $302,809

*Revenue for the 2023 year saw higher Administrative Expenses compared to ideal non-profit expense allocations. This was due to the CEO transition which required more Administrative Expenses associated with the hiring search and successful onboarding. Our goal in fiscal year 2024 is to see a gradual increase in direct student service expenses

Revenue for this summary is presented on a cash basis Our 2023 audited financials will be available via Guidestar later in 2024.