February 28, 2011
A colleague and I started the first BEST "hub" (competition site) in Alabama in 2001 and since then have had a hand in helping 20-plus other hubs get started around the country. There are now 47 sites in 16 states, with 8 here in Alabama. BEST is now entering its 19th year as a volunteer-run organization. It continues to have a profound impact on K-12 Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education and the lives of thousands of students who participate in it. My experience in BEST has been the highlight of my 33 years in higher education and I count it a privilege to get to be a part of it.
The Great!
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
...its ability to help students develop skills and competencies that will serve them in any career pursuit.
Ways to make it better...
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
...find sustainable funding for BEST to have a full-time staff rather than rely solely on volunteers to run the entire organization.
MY ROLE:
Volunteer & I run an annual BEST competition for students and schools in Central Alabama.