Last month, Stepan Company sponsored an Illinois Chemical Education Foundation (ICEF) event where a record 18 high school students received a $2,000 scholarship each for demonstrating academic excellence in the pursuit of a science-related career. The annual event also recognizes the top high school chemistry teacher in Illinois with the $3,000 Davidson Award.
The Chemical Industry Council of Illinois (CICI), a state-wide business trade group representing the interests of the chemical industry in the state of Illinois, hosted the event. CICI was first founded in 1951 and included Stepan Company as a founding member, with the main objective to promote excellence in education. At the time, the members were concerned that young people weren't pursuing careers in the sciences.
As CICI grew, it expanded its efforts into legislative, regulatory and other advocacy areas. Thus, ICEF was formed to continue to carry out the educational outreach activities of CICI.
In addition to these scholarships, ICEF events include an annual Career Conference and the “Illinois You Be the Chemist Challenge.” The Career Conference introduces high school and junior high school students to careers in the chemical industry and the concept of sound science. The program includes a glass-blowing demonstration, a chemistry demonstration and a hands-on, interactive industry exhibit area. To date, more than 75,000 students have attended the Career Conference.
The “Illinois You Be the Chemist Challenge” is geared toward educating youth about chemistry through academic competitions akin to spelling bees and quiz bowls that test grade 5-8 students on important chemistry concepts, historical discoveries and safety awareness tips. Over the years, the challenge has changed from an individual student competition to a school team-style competition.
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