When you think of STEM you should also think of KLJ Way. The mission of KLJ Way is to bridge the gap between the STEM industry and men and women of color by providing scholarships and resources to those pursuing a degree in the field.
GET INFORMED:
Men and women of color have seen both the best and worst of science, however, despite hardships, numerous trailblazers have broken through barriers to build foundations many stand on today. Black History Month is a time to reflect on the accomplishments of those who have pushed boundaries and paved a way for others. KLJ Way recognizes a few of the many African American trailblazers who excelled in STEM categories.
Benjamin Banneker – Scientist, Astronomer, and Author
- He was the son of a slave, wrote almanacs (an annual calendar containing important dates and statistical information such as astronomical data and tide tables) from 1792 to 1798. Banneker was appointed by President George Washington to the District of Columbia Commission to help map the national capital, and he built the first American clock. (1750s)
Euphemia Lofton Hayes – Mathematician
- First black woman to receive a PhD in Mathematics (1943) from The Catholic University of America. She co-founded the Catholic Interracial Council of the District of Columbia and was appointed to the District of Columbia Board of Education and was president of that body from 1966 to 1967. During her time on the Board of Education, she fought for desegregation within the school system and also supported a law to desegregate the school system.
Gorge Carruthers – Astrophysicist
- Inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, Carruthers is most recognized for his contributions to aeronautical engineering. He invented the first moon based observatory (1972). He also invented the ultraviolet camera, or spectrograph, which was used by NASA in the 1972 Apollo 16 flight, revealing the mysteries of space and the Earth’s atmosphere.
GAME NIGHT:
February is a month for “firsts” to be recognized and KLJ Way made history of its own by hosting its very first event. Game night is a tradition amongst friends and family and KLJ Way decided to use this tradition to bring our community together for a night of fun all could enjoy. On February 23, 2019 KLJ Way hosted its Game Night at the Randolph Intergenerational Cultural Center. A center that focuses on building community and bringing individuals of all ages together for an array of activities. As many as 30 kids and adults came together to make Game Night a success and fundraise on behalf of STEM. A variety of games including Jenga, Scrabble, Uno, Battleship, Connect4, and KLJ Way’s staple game, Chess!
Game Night is not complete without some team competition, so KLJ Way also facilitatedTrivia and Taboo allowing those in attendance to socialize, network, and challenge each other. KLJ Way congratulates the winning teams for Trivia and Taboo for banding together and excelling in the heat of competition.
Taboo:Just Wait on It
Trivia:Team Aisha
There were many laughs, and great experiences shared for all ages to enjoy. We would like to thank everyone who purchased tickets and helped to make this event a successful one.
GET INVOLVED:
KLJ Way has worked on various activities, such as the #KLJWayChallenge #GivingTuesday, and “Pay it Forward” to give the opportunity for communities to get involved and give back. If you like to learn more about future volunteer opportunities, contact us, info@kljway.org, or would like to donate, click HERE.