Chemistry is pHun Partners with Maryville University

Dr. Anuradha “Anu” Vummenthala, Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Maryville University, has suggested the formation of a partnership with “Chemistry is pHun”, an outreach program of the St. Louis Section of ACS. Dr. Vummenthala had participated in a workshop where Chemistry is pHun partnered with the Math and Science Network of Greater St. Louis to present a program for 7th–10th grade women at the Expanding Your Horizons conference in March, 2018. She learned about the “States of Matter” program presented to second grade students in the Rockwood and Kirkwood School Districts and thought this was an excellent opportunity for her chemistry students at Maryville to appreciate the importance of their classroom studies and serve as role models for the next generation of scientists.

As a result of Anu’s suggestion, Maryville chemistry students have begun serving as assistants and presenters with Will Ridley, Coordinator for Chemistry is pHun. Maryville students Fujr Ibrahim and Marilyn Vazquez presented for 2nd graders at Pond Elementary School in Rockwood on November 1st, and Morgan Bertolino and Caleb Holaway presented at Tillman Elementary School in Kirkwood on December 19th. The new partnership is already garnering positive feedback from 2nd graders. Teachers and administrators reported that it was very well received. Future collaborations in January and March, 2019, are planned.

If you would like to learn more about this or other programs of Chemistry is pHun, please email Will Ridley, or phone 314.920.1507.