Twenty-Four STEAM Character Principles for 2024

Twenty-Four

Character Principles for

STEAM in

2024

BY WANDA J. HARDING Rocket Scientist| Author | Educator

© 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

Twenty-four Character Principles for STEM in 2024 Copyright © 2024 by Wanda J. Harding Launching Leaders

Scripture quotations taken from The New Century Version of the International Children's Bible translation for young readers, Copyright © 1987.

Used by permission.

Launching Leaders The research is clear, STEAM leadership in this new era must go beyond depth of content knowledge. STEAM leaders must be critical thinkers, innovative designers, and creative problem solvers. However, the most impactful of those will be the ones with strong character. If that is your desire, then this book is for YOU! Designed for STEAM educators and students looking to become dynamic 21st Century leaders, this eBooksisithe g nsecond u pin! the Launching Leaders series.

w a n d a h a r d i n g . c o m

Meet the Author Wanda J. Harding is an educator, musician, and former NASA engineer. One of her career milestones was serving as the Senior Mission Manager to launch the Mars Science Laboratory mission carrying the Curiosity Rover. She grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, and is a proud alumna of Hampton University, the Georgia Institute of Technology, and Piedmont University.

As a mission manager with NASA Kennedy Space Center (Florida), she managed rocket launch services for various planetary, earthobserving, and technology demonstration missions. NOAA recruited Wanda to serve as the Technical Director for the Joint Polar Satellite System program (Maryland).

Now as an educator, she teaches engineering, mathematics, and science subjects in high school and middle school (Georgia). Wanda also has coached the middle school Robotics Team.

Most importantly, Wanda is a child of God. She is passionate about inspiring the next generation of believers with stories and examples of how she has seen God's handiwork in her work in space and science.

w a n d a h a r d i n g . c o m

TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction

01 Building the Foundation Integrity, Wisdom, Knowledge, Humility, Creativity, Curiosity, Insight, Determination

02 Being a Team Player

Responsible, Trustworthy, Reliable, Thoughtful, Unselfish, Humorous, Fair, Respectful

03 Leading through Service Compassion, Diligence, Reflection, Honesty, Caring, Patience, Perseverance, Courage

More Than STEAM

Introduction The twenty-four character principles for 2024 continue to serve as the "must haves" and "must be’s" of our 21st century future STEAM leaders. As we move ahead, our rising generation of STEAM leaders must posses the necessary skills to be critical thinkers, innovative designers, and creative problem solvers. WHY? With the increased reliance on AI tools and resources, our scholars are being prepared for occupations and professions that will be significantly different from any known in modern history. However, the distinction comes when competent, and ethical, leaders are placed in charge of innovation and progress.

As a parent, guardian, educator, advocate, mentor, or adult who works with children, this book is written for you. We ask that you prayerfully present and model these twenty-four character principles to your students. We must be ready to share our own stories and journeys of growth with them. When they begin to realize character development comes through experience, the Book of Proverbs will become an excellent guide for their own personal journey.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (ICB) Trust the Lord with all your heart.

Don’t depend on your own understanding.

Remember the Lord in everything you do.

And he will give you success. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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01 BUILDING THE FOUNDATION "Most people say that it is the intellect which makes a great scientist.

They are

wrong: it is character."

-- Albert Einstein

Integrity Before an engineer accepts a design change, there must be proof the integrity of the original structure, as designed and built, is not compromised. The structure may be a bridge, a satellite, or an algorithm. Yet, in each case, the original design was developed to solve a particular problem. If the proposed change minimizes, or significantly reduces, the effectiveness of the structure in any way the proposal is rejected. In other words, an unsafe condition may be introduced when the integrity is compromised. However, if the proposal proves to enhance either the form, fit, or function of the original structure, then the design change is accepted. The confidence in the integrity is maintained.

Integrity, the willingness to consistently make good choices when there are no witnesses.

Proverbs 10:9 (ICB) The honest person will live safely.

But the one who is dishonest will be caught. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Wisdom Following a terrible accident at the launch site, a young engineer was tasked to review the telemetry data as a member of the failure determination team. Each of the final checks and tests performed before the launch were successful. The data from the rocket subsystems were nominal during both countdowns, the Launch-minus-1-day and the day of launch. However, the engineer recalled a discussion with the lead meteorologist about certain cloud types known to contain hazardous electric fields. The team decided to review the launch day conditions, and determined the rocket may have triggered a lightning strike by flying through the cloud. Based on the engineer's report a wise decision was made by the team to improve the launch readiness criteria regarding the weather.

Today, each launch benefits from the update to carefully consider the clouds when determining the final "GO" for launch.

Wisdom, the willingness to consider lessons from past experiences to prudently inform future decisions.

Proverbs 4:8 (ICB) Believe in the value of wisdom, and it will make you great. Use it, and it will bring honor to you. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Knowledge Knowledge acquisition is a requisite for all professionals in STEAM-related occupations. The need and will to remain current and relevant are essential to success. Whether it is the medical professional attending a conference on innovative applications of nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, or the mathematician presenting findings from research on the latest developments in actuarial science, being knowledgeable is a priority.

I recall my early days as an engineer with NASA where annual performance evaluations were based on demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities. In other words, to foster an environment of high-level performance, a priority was placed on continual education towards high quality, innovation, and competitive advantages.

Knowledge, facts and figures sought to enhance our understanding of the world in which we live.

Proverbs 18:15 (ICB) The mind of a smart person is ready to get knowledge.

The wise person listens to learn more. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Humility The movie "Hidden Figures" celebrated the significant contributions of a group of dynamic, talented, and brilliant African-American women during the great space-race. The vintage popculture footage of the Gemini, Mercury, and Apollo missions often excluded, or ignored, these human computers working alongside the scientists, engineers, and astronauts. Yet, the women were not deterred from continuing the work, and paving the way for future generations to follow. There is a certain level of confidence required when working in a STEAM profession. Though confident, these women demonstrated humility as a complementary virtue.

Now that we are aware of their contributions, we too can join in acknowledging and celebrating their numerous accomplishments and impact.

Humility, being ok with others managing the spotlight as you get the job done.

Proverbs 27:2 (ICB) Don’t praise yourself. Let someone else do it.

Let the praise come from a stranger and not from your own mouth. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Creativity Consider the spiral patterns found in pine cones, nautilus shells, hurricane clouds, and the seeds in the center of a sunflower. These are expressions of beauty and creativity as expressed in nature.

Creativity exists in nature, and it is present in us.

As we study the world around us, we gain inspiration to express our own creativity.

Whether it is the masterful use of symmetry in an architectural design, the incorporation of observed patterns to create mathematical models, or the application of aesthetics to enhance the design of prosthetic limbs, the starting point is the courage to be creative while meeting a need.

Creativity, using your unique ideas to form something new, and develop what is original, meaningful, and valuable

Proverbs 3:27 (ICB) Whenever you are able, do good to people who need help. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Curiosity There are two one-word questions that motivate the STEAM profession. The first question is "why?" Most of us first uttered this question as a toddler. As we explored our homes, the backyard, and the night sky, we manifested an insatiable desire to know more. On the receiving end of the third or fourth why was an often exasperated adult, pleased with the curiosity expressed, while realizing the questioning could potentially go on forever! Yet, the field of science is devoted to going far beyond the third or fourth why in search of explanations and satisfactory answers. The second question is "how?"

We are fascinated by the patterns and rhythms of nature. We exploit the "how" of nature to design and develop solutions (think birds and airplanes).

The desire to learn and know more drives us to make more discoveries. We even sent a rover to Mars named Curiosity to help us learn more about our neighbor in the solar system.

Curiosity, the desire to seek, investigate, and explore to know more.

Proverbs 25:2 (ICB) God is honored for what he keeps secret.

Kings are honored for what they can discover. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Insight Insight.

Intuitive understanding.

That gut feeling you have about something.

Some even refer to it as the sixth senses.

And for the Marvel fans, it's the "spidey-sense."

We all have it.

But what is it?

According to Psychology Today our brain quickly sifts through past experiences and cumulative knowledge to establish a decisively "in the moment" judgement. We use it to zoom in and provide clarity on complex issues. Experts are invited to offer their insight on matters of great debate. They often present perspectives that may have been overlooked. Therefore, the invaluable insight helps teams move closer to a more viable, feasible, and plausible solution.

Insight, the capacity to have and pursue a deeper understanding, to intuitively know the true meaning of a thing

Proverbs 2:3 (ICB) Cry out for wisdom.

Beg for understanding. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Determination On September 12, 1962, President John F. Kennedy addressed the nation from the campus of Rice University. The speech focused on the decision to send humans to the moon. This announcement came a short four years after the launch of America’s first satellite into orbit. Now that the great “space race” with the former Soviet Union was in full gear, the next challenge would be to send the first humans beyond low-Earth orbit. Destination: the moon.

To paraphrase the “why” of going to the moon, President Kennedy declared we would pursue such ventures “...not because they are easy, but because they are hard...” This simple statement became one of the most quotable excerpts from that speech I would hear over and over during my career with NASA. However, to accomplish such a feat would required a level of determination that would settle for nothing less than success in the end.

Determination, the willingness and desire to move forward, despite any obstacles, to achieve a meaningful and purposeful goal.

Proverbs 19:20 (ICB) Listen to advice and accept correction.

Then in the end you will be wise. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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02 BEING A TEAM PLAYER "You have the right to be involved. You have something important to contribute, and you have to take the risk to contribute it."

-- Dr. Mae C. Jemison

Responsible Charles Osgood, a radio and television host from the 1930's, wrote a poem illustrating the importance of outlining clear roles and responsibilities for teams and organizations.

The "Responsibility Poem" identifies four key characters; Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. It turns out Everybody recognizes that Somebody needs to do something. The task, whether large or small, is often quite manageable. In many cases, Anybody can do the job. However, as Everybody waits for the work to begin, Nobody accepts it as their responsibility. The task, left undone, leads to Everybody looking for Somebody to blame.

Responsible, the willingness to independently take ownership of duties and decisions for which you are accountable

Proverbs 6:6-8 (ICB) Go watch the ants, you lazy person.

Watch what they do and be wise. Ants have no commander. They have no leader or ruler. But they store up food in the summer. They gather their supplies at harvest. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Trustworthy One of the best lessons on trustworthiness may be found in the Gospel of Matthew. In Chapter 5 Jesus is providing a very important lesson on the challenges and difficulties of making and keeping promises. He is bringing to light the reality of our limitations, and our inability to offer any onehundred percent guarantees. Regardless of how well-intentioned the promise or oath may be, we are reminded of the potential impact to keeping the promise due to things beyond our control. Yet, we are given a recommendation that, when followed, would deem us trustworthy. He says, in verse 5:37a, "Say only ‘yes’ if you mean ‘yes,’ and say only ‘no’ if you mean ‘no.’ " (ICB)

Trustworthy, deemed reliable, honest, dependable, and truthful having qualities that merit confidence

Proverbs 11:3 (ICB) Good people will be guided by honesty.

But dishonesty will destroy those who are not trustworthy. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Reliable "United we stand, divided we fall."

"Teamwork makes the dream work."

"You are only as strong as your weakest link."

The success of a group project depends on each member contributing and following through to completion. The relationships within the group are based on mutual trust and confidence that each person is there to succeed. Any teacher who has assigned a group project, and allowed students to select their partners, will observe them choosing reliable classmates over friends. Even at a young age, children recognize the importance of each person owning and doing their part. After all, no one seeks to be the weak link.

Reliable, the quality of being consistently dependable, responsible, and worthy of trust

Proverbs 3:29 (ICB) Don’t make plans to hurt your neighbor.

He lives nearby and trusts you. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Thoughtful The story of the "Good Samaritan" is a true example of kindness in action. The parable, as told by Jesus and recorded in the Gospel of Luke, describes the thoughtful deeds and actions taken by a stranger who responded to someone in distress. As the story unfolds, we find that those who were expected to know to show kindness showed disdain. However, the most unlikely hero, the Samaritan, chose to see the hurt victim and do something about it.

By providing first-aid, transportation, and financial coverage for lodging and medical expenses, the Samaritan demonstrated compassion in action. The people and situations we encounter may not be as dire, but the lesson remains. Show a little kindness.

Your thoughtfulness can go a long way.

Thoughtful, taking the time to be considerate and kind; willingness to see and acknowledge others

Proverbs 3:3 (ICB) Don’t ever stop being kind and truthful.

Let kindness and truth show in all you do.

Write them down in your mind as if on a tablet. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Unselfish Several years ago, I attended a secular leadership training focused on identifying and exploring personal motivations. The facilitator, while sharing what he deemed to be an unrealistic approach to life, provided what turned out to be the highlight of the training for me. Taking "joy" as the acronym, he shared that as a child, he had been taught "Jesus first, others second, and yourself last."

For those who take on the servant-leadership approach, this acronym is a perfect reminder of what should be our motivation. Putting the needs of others ahead of your own often leads to increased care, concern, and generosity. The point guard who gives up the shot to create an assist, or the manager who chooses to publicly recognize and credit the contributions of a team member, are examples of the unselfishness found on high performing teams.

Unselfish, the willingness to be generous and caring towards others; putting others first

Proverbs 28:22 (ICB) A selfish person is in a hurry to get rich.

He does not realize his selfishness will make him poor. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Humorous Why did the golfer need a new pair of socks?

Because he had a hole in one!

Why did two fours skip dinner?

Because they already 8.

LOL!!

The jury is still out on whether or not it takes more muscles to frown than smile, but one fact remains.

A smile can still light up a room, ease a burden, or improve a sour disposition. Rather than offend, we can use humor to help diffuse tense situations.

Humor can be a great icebreaker, or a positive distraction. Used wisely, you can help bring a smile to someone's face.

Humor, to bring amusement or laughter; to cause to smile or laugh

Proverbs 17:22 (ICB) A happy heart is like good medicine.

But a broken spirit drains your strength. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Fair When a manager has the opportunity to promote a team member, there is an expectation the process will be fair. Identifying the best candidate must be done without showing favoritism. It has to be free from discrimination and dishonesty. If the manager has a reputation of being unfair, team members quickly loose confidence in the selection. The morale is negatively affected, and productivity diminishes.

However, when the manager transparently shares the promotion criteria, and has demonstrated fairness in the past, the team can be assured the best person will be selected to help the team move forward.

Fairness, the willingness to treat others with impartiality, honesty, and without bias; right and reasonable.

Proverbs 6:16-19 (ICB) There are six things the Lord hates. There are seven things he cannot stand: a proud look, a lying tongue, hands that kill innocent people, a mind that thinks up evil plans, feet that are quick to do evil, a witness who tells lies and a man who causes trouble among brothers. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Respectful "R-E-S-P-E-C-T! Find out what it means to me!"

So goes the song made popular by the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin. She was not necessarily focused on STEAM, but she did intend to be acknowledged for what she was bringing to the table. Similarly, leaders must be willing to acknowledge, respect, and integrate the knowledge, skills and abilities of each team member. High functioning teams allow members to thrive in their area of expertise. Good managers provide opportunities for team members to improve on areas of weakness, recognizing it will be mutually beneficial. Respect means each voice is not only heard, but regarded. That is important because the expertise often comes from an unexpected source.

Respect, the act of showing and providing others honor, esteem, and regard; admiration

Proverbs 22:1 (ICB) Being respected is more important than having great riches.

To be well thought of is better than owning silver or gold. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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03 LEADING THROUGH SERVICE “Servant leadership is all about making the goals clear and then rolling your sleeves up and doing whatever it takes to help people win. In that situation, they don’t work for you; you work for them."

-- Ken Blanchard

Compassion Heartless.

Indifferent.

Insensitive.

Ruthless.

Unsympathetic.

Thankfully, Jesus was none of these. In order to respond the the needs of the "harassed and helpless" He had to have compassion for the people (Matthew 9:36). He saw their issues, afflictions, sicknesses, and pain, yet offered relief.

The callous see, but choose to ignore. Therefore, the model is clear for the servant-leaders of the 21st century. Whether through innovation, invention, or discovery, these leaders will make certain those in need are fed, clothed, and sheltered, the sick are cared for, and the imprisoned are visited. Compassion in action.

Compassion, a strong feeling of sympathy; recognizing the hurt and suffering by others, with the desire to offer relief.

Proverbs 29:7 (ICB) Good people are concerned that the poor are treated fairly. But the wicked don’t care. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Diligence The woman in Proverbs 31 is described as trustworthy, industrious, and loving. She takes care of her family, and helps those in need. She makes wise investments, and ensures the returns are profitable. She is creative and skillful, producing the highest of quality. Her business acumen garners respect, and the quality of her work is esteemed. Her words expose wisdom, and actions model kindness. Her family esteems her, and the community admires her. She is a role-model. She is a leader.

She is diligence personified.

Diligence, choosing to work and put forth effort in a careful, thorough, energetic, and detailed manner.

Proverbs 31:18 (ICB) She makes sure that what she makes is good.

She works by her lamp late into the night. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Reflection The effective 21st Century leader embarks on a daily scavenger hunt to find the encouragement, motivation, and inspiration needed to move the people closer to their goals. It is through careful consideration of the challenges and triumphs that the valuable nuggets are found. Mistakes, errors, and missteps provide a basis for improvement.

Victories offer validation for things that are going well. Difficulties and obstacles foster innovation.

Hardship and adversity promote empathy. The lessons, shared by the entire team, provide a legacy for future generations. We too, must be ready to answer the question, "What do those stones [lessons] mean to you?" (Joshua 4:6-7) Moving forward successfully includes time for reflection.

Reflection, giving serious or careful thought on a matter; contemplation and review before taking action

Proverbs 23:12 (ICB) Remember what you are taught.

And listen carefully to words of knowledge. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Honesty The prescription for honest leadership is found in Micah 6:8. The first ingredient is to do justice, that which is right, just, and fair to other people. When serving in this manner, trust is established. The second ingredient is to love kindness by extending mercy, grace, compassion, and goodness towards others. This provides a model for the team when faced with difficulties and challenges. The final ingredient is to walk humbly with God. The walk is based on trust, obedience and fellowship. Each decision, objective, and goal can be made with honest intent to serve, and not harm.

Honesty, being upright, truthful, sincere, and fair; free from fraud and deceit

Proverbs 2:9 (ICB) Then you will understand what is honest and fair and right.

You will understand what is good to do. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Caring The servant-leader is distinguished by a genuine love for others. This leader takes note of the wellbeing of team members, and responds with concern, kindness, and compassion. Rather than emotions, this 21st Century leader uses wisdom to guide conflict resolution. In place of ridicule, the leader offers constructive criticism to build and restore confidence. The growth and development of team members also becomes a priority, and the caring leader provides opportunities to enrich the team. Diplomacy, reconciliation, and friendship are evident, and serve as a model for the team.

Caring requires the leader to see the members.

Caring, to genuinely display concern, kindness, and compassion to others.

Proverbs 31:26(ICB) She speaks wise words.

And she teaches others to be kind.

© 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Patience The confidence of a team is directly proportional to the leadership.

If the leader is quickly irritated, easily annoyed, short of temper, or frustrated when it appears something happens too slowly, the effectiveness of the team diminishes swiftly. The 21st Century leader has the option to exhibit patience, without sacrificing the quality or productivity of the team. It is no coincidence that patience is listed among the fruit of the spirit, along with kindness and peace (Galatians 5:22). Patience is again partnered with kindness when characterizing charity, or love (I Corinthians 13:4). Patience even guides the execution of soft-skills in the workplace.

Teamwork, problem-solving, decision-making, and stress management all benefit from the application of patience.

Patience, the tolerance of delays, suffering, or problems without being annoyed or anxious

Proverbs 25:15 (ICB) With patience you can convince a ruler.

And a gentle word can get through to the hard-headed. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Perseverance One of the exciting public-engagement activities sponsored by NASA is the naming competition for its family of Mars rovers.

School-aged children are invited to submit essays on why a particular name should be chosen. Beginning with Sojourner, in 1997, the names selected continue to inspire. Spirit.

Opportunity. Curiosity. Perseverance. Given the barren, inhospitable terrain of Mars, it is amazing each rover has persevered to provide new information about our neighboring planet.

And so it is for outstanding 21st Century leaders. Mission success demands we move ahead despite the challenges, obstacles, and difficulties.

Perseverance, persistent, continued effort to do or achieve despite difficulties, obstacles, and discouragement.

Proverbs 24:10 (ICB) If you give up when trouble comes, it shows that you have very little strength. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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Courage Before God commanded Joshua to be "strong and courageous" He provided assurance of his future success. In Joshua 1:2, God first revealed the land was already theirs to possess consistent with the promise previously given to Moses. As a matter of fact, God provided the coordinates of the territory to remove any doubt. Next, God assured Joshua that He would be right there with him for the rest of his life. In other words, God's presence would be guaranteed, without fail. It is only after God establishes His role that He commands Joshua to be "strong and courageous." Why? God not only knew the people needed a confident leader, but He made sure the people understood the source of the Joshua's confidence. When doubt and uncertainty would come, Joshua, through his obedience to God, could courageously model the way to proceed.

Courage, the ability to fearlessly face whatever danger, pain, or difficulty that may come; to be brave

Proverbs 28:1 (ICB) Evil people run even though no one is chasing them.

But good people are as brave as a lion. © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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More than STEAM! Preparing the next generation to serve and lead is a matter of both character development and academic mastery. This powerful combination yields a corps of STEAM professionals devoted to improving and making life better for all.

Therefore, we choose to frame STEAM in service:

Science to describe and predict the processes of nature, to understand God’s creation, as we help and serve others Technology to make things better or more convenient as we help and serve others Engineering to use all available resources to solve problems as we help and serve others Art to incorporate creative expressions of life and nature as we help and serve others Mathematics to characterize and quantify patterns and measure changes as we work to help and serve others © 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

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NOTES

© 2024 2023 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS

© 2024 WANDA J. HARDING LAUNCHING LEADERS