SARSEF

I have been a volunteer with this organization for several years. As a judge for the science fair, I have had an opportunity to see the amazing work students have accomplished and the use of their critical thinking skills. I have also seen first-hand that SARSEF goes beyond the fair providing teacher training, expanded STEM opportunities for students, and summer programs.

SARSEF is an exceptional organization! Every single person who supports SARSEF as staff, volunteer, or Board Member deeply cares about the mission. We are so thankful for the impact that SARSEF if making in Southern Arizona. Have you seen their INCREDIBLE science fair?? It is WORLD CLASS! We love how how SARSEF makes learning fun, exciting, and encourages every student to explore their own potential. Congrats, SARSEF for making a difference in our community!

SARSEF is a life-changing organization. As a scientist and student, I've strayed away from STEM at times due to a lack of support and my disadvantaged background. SARSEF supports kids of all ages and backgrounds who go through the same experience as I did; their outreach to schools and educators ensures they are motivated to keep innovating with all-hands support. Now, I get to share SARSEF's mission as an ambassador, and share my story in STEM and the one-of-a-kind benefits of being a part of an outstanding organization like SARSEF.

What an amazing organization!!! I am so lucky to have stumbled upon this great group of people, and now get to frequently volunteer at so many community events. As a kid who never got the opportunity to do STEM camps, I really appreciate the goal of the organization. So thankful for everything SARSEF is doing for the kids of Arizona!

During this summer I attended the closing ceremony for the summer youth science camp held at Pima Community College by SARSEF. I got to see the sense of achievement the kids felt as well as their parents. The staff showed their kindness and knowledge in the organization of the science camp. Having these kinds of activities in the community SARSEF plays a very important role in motivating the youth and furthering their interest in science.

When my daughter participated in this program in high school, it greatly influenced her education and career choices as an adult. I believe this program gave her the confidence to pursue a degree in STEM. I am thankful this program gave her the opportunities she may not have had without it.

SARSEF has come to our education day which trains adult leaders about education in our community for multiple years and they do an engaging activity to get the class moving and active in the middle of a long day. They share the important information on how we need to do more work to engage STEM student in our community.

SARSEF is a shining star here in Arizona. Their programs, camps, workshops and more are a true reflection of their passion for STEM education and the futures of students. SARSEF is a bridge between passion and opportunity, bringing teachers and young people together in spaces of explorative learning. We are so lucky to have SARSEF in Tucson!

The work that SARSEF does is incredibly well thought out, valuable, and sincere.

From camps, to fairs, to conferences and so much more, the staff at SARSEF works tirelessly to make sure this new generation of young learners is supported and that their passion is fostered. The work that they are doing cannot be overstated and we are definitely incredibly lucky to have such a great organization in Tucson, Arizona.

Thank you SARSEF!!!

SARSEF is an amazing organization that empowers kids to think critically and solve the problems they see around them. The SARSEF Fair allows students to take ownership of research projects and share their experiences with the public. Seeing students present projects that really matter to them is thrilling and I'm so happy SARSEF exists!

SARSEF is a great resource for teachers. I can't tell you how many times, as a new and veteran teacher, SARSEF supported science instruction at our campus. From helping students get started on project ideas and seeing them to completion to supporting teachers with science instruction aimed at helping students delve deeper into scientific concepts and topics, SARSEF has been a great support in our district. Thank you SARSEF, we appreciate you!

SARSEF was perhaps the most important scientific experience I have had to date. It allowed me to work in a R01 research laboratory as a high school student, learning how to engineer and evolve proteins. My research program as an assistant professor at The Scripps Research Institute (https://badranlab.com) and previous fellow of the Broad Institute (https://www.broadinstitute.org/reimagining-ribosome) have been colored by my seminal experiences during this time. I would be delighted to tell you more about this, feel free to reach out at ahbadran@scripps.edu at any time!

SARSEF has been one of the best run and most impactful nonprofits I have ever worked with over my career (100+ nonprofits). I am grateful for the chance to support their work and mission.

SARSEF, and their project STAR lab, allows for high school students to participate in academic science. SARSEF hosts activities in conjunction with local schools in the Tucson area to allow students experience and mentorship in science. SARSEF improves science communication skills and creates relationships in academic science in Tucson and across the state of Arizona.

The STAR lab, a collaboration with the University of Arizona, allows for high school students to be paired with a scientific mentor for a six month project. Scientists from several states in many areas of government, academics, and industry coordinate research projects for high schoolers. During the course of the project, students learn to write proposals and technical documents, as well as create scientific posters and presentations. The STAR lab culminates in a professional science fair presentation.

SARSEF is working actively to propel young people into science. The program draws from both the underrepresented and the gifted populations of students in Arizona, and creates community engagement around science.

SARSEF provides amazing opportunities for high school students to participate in real research with scientist mentors from a wide variety of fields. I had my first mentoring experience with SARSEF last year and was connected with three bright high school students, one of whom won a regional award with her project! This year I am just getting started with two brilliant young women and look forward to seeing them grow as researchers.

As a researcher and educator at the University of Arizona, I see first hand how valuable early encouragement and engagement in STEM is for later success in students career and education. I have been a part of SARSEF for several years now, helping as a judge for different scientific disciplines in various age groups. It is one of the most rewarding things I do, being able to further spark a young persons interest in science. It is always great to see how excited the students are to present all the hard work they’ve done, and to see how amazing their work is at such a young age. I am always in awe of how much hard work the students put in their projects, and frankly just how ingenious and intelligent they are! SARSEF does an amazing job jumpstarting these students’ careers in science and I am very grateful to be a part of that process.

SARSEF is the premiere organization that promotes authentic research experiences for preK-12 students in southern Arizona. They are my go-to organization when I am looking for a community partner for UArizona researchers who want to make an impact with pre-college students and educators.

I have been volunteering with the Racing The Sun (RTS) program for almost 5 years, which SARSEF took over 3 years ago. The SARSEF staff has done a wonderful job, especially during the COVID outbreak. The staff all care about the futures of all our kids. The kids today are our future professionals. I have been given more responsibilities over the years and I enjoy working with everyone. In my future retirement I hope I can continue my involvement with SARSEF.

I’ve been volunteering with this nonprofit for the past few years, and there’s nothing like knowing I directly played a role in helping the next generation of scholars. SARSEF provides underserved students with amazing opportunities that can absolutely change their lives. They help students not
only improve their skills but their confidence as future engineers and researchers. I’m grateful to be a part of it.

I have volunteered several times with SARSEF and each time I feel so much joy and pride in helping kids explore science and find things their interested in. It always makes me feel especially happy to help students who might not originally have the opportunity to partake in certain aspects of STEM. It's important for all kids to partake in the exploration of STEM to help prepare us for the future.

I never had the opportunity to attend SARSEF's fair or educational programs. However, through my late high school and college experience, I have had the chance to help SARSEF in roles that grew with my young professional career, from volunteer to contractor. I'm very grateful to this organization for the opportunities it has afforded me, and I deeply support their mission and the good they do for Arizona youth.

I have judged and volunteered for this nonprofit for four years and truly value the effort they put into helping our community’s youth. I support them 100%!

SARSEF is great! They do so much for schools, teachers, and STUDENTS!

I earned real money at the fair and even opened my first bank account because I won a real money check. I was in 3rd grade last year and used different glues to protect drinking glasses from breaking. This year I am going to do my project on dark matter.

What a wonderful nonprofit that employs the very best people. The staff instill critical thinking skills in children--of course--but what makes them so special is HOW they do so. By engaging their own creativity, joy, inquisitiveness, and kindness, the staff inspire children to do the same while pursuing their STEM interests. This is STEM, well-rooted.

dat help my staving chidlerdn and helped them learn ejl;lef

I was so fortunate to help assemble some of the 1670 AZ Stem Adventure kits for Sarsef. The staff was so friendly and helpful, even demonstrating how the kits would work. The kits were simple yet creative (and I was a little envious that I never had the chance to learn about science! ) There was a true team spirit and I left each day feeling that I was making a real contribution to the community. It was fun and I would do it again!

SARSEF is an excellent nonprofit organization for many children wanting/needing to expand their minds. Putting on their thinking caps to solve problems in their elected fields is awesome!

I was very impressed with all the different projects the kids displayed. It truly was a wonderful experience to have the opportunity to volunteer for this amazing organization.

I believe that when our teachers partner with an outside organization like SARSEF, that believes in them and their pursuit to challenge students to think critically, we make their job easier and they feel appreciated and supported.

I was originally requested to be one the initial members of the Southern Arizona Regional Science and Engineering Foundation (SARSEF) Ambassadors due to my successful submission of science projects and winning regional and state awards at Arizona science fairs for 6 years. Starting in elementary school I worked 5 hours a week on my projects for 5 months out of the year researching and creating science displays and practicing my pitch. I made an impression on SARSEF with my commitment and was nominated to be the first youth appointed to the Board of Directors January 2021. As a board member I use my network to create new partnerships, increase funding for student awards and bring awareness to STEM in under served communities. From both experiences, I have gained new skills in facilitation, communication, and group dynamics-skills that will prepare me for my career educating and interaction with the public.

SARSEF has a passion for teaching our students science and critical thinking! SARSEF was actively engaged in keeping our K-12 students interested in science throughout the last year, even during the pandemic. I had the opportunity to work with SARSEF during last year's AZ STEM Adventure, and the students did not want the virtual event to end. SARSEF also put together over 1000 bags with science experiments that the students completed throughout the week through guided science videos to support the AZ STEM Adventure. Students had a blast, and the AZ STEM Adventure was a huge success in the middle of a challenging year. As a Board member and a volunteer for the AZ STEM Adventure, I am proud of everything SARSEF accomplished this last year.

Volunteering for SARSEF was a memorable experience. Giving STEM students the opportunities and safe environment needed to create projects for the science fair was worth every bit of my time. I'm sure SARSEF felt the same way. Can't wait to see more from them!

I volunteered for SARSEF for the first time during the pandemic for their virtual Science Fair. I was so impressed with the thoughtful way they were able to provide kids with the opportunity to display their projects and be interviewed by judges. All virtually! SARSEF provided activities, awards presentations, and even a scavenger hunt. Plus really great training for volunteers! I can't wait to volunteer again this year.

I could not be more proud to be a board member of such an outstanding organization such as SARSEF. The dedication of the staff is mind blowing. Everything they do is focused on our kid’s future as critical thinkers. Anything we can do as a society to encourage our future generations to love the world of research, science and engineering will benefit us all.

I have been so impressed with SARSEF's ability to pivot with the pandemic. In one of their typically hands-on progams, Az STEM Adventure, SARSEF staff and volunteers packaged and delivered 5 different hands on science and engineering projects to 180 students and teachers in the Yuma school system. These projects allowed the students to continue to pursue their wonder and passion HANDS-ON while zooming for additional insights instructions from SARSEF. Incredible!

As a retired educator, I always used science to engage students because children are naturally so curious about the world around them! I was introduced to SARSEF shortly after moving to Arizona and found the organization to be an incredibly valuable asset to the community. SARSEF is so well organized and delivers on their mission of creating future critical thinkers and problem solvers through science and engineering.

We are so fortunate to have SARSEF serving our community. I first learned of SARSEF when my daughter competed in science fair in fourth grade. I remember walking into the Tucson Convention Center with her project board and being blown away by the sheer number of projects showcasing the hard work and talent of Southern Arizona students. Attending Innovator Night that week gave our family the opportunity to take a closer look at many of these projects, in addition to participating in fun science demonstrations. That experience not only inspired my daughter to continue competing in science fair for the last 8 years, but also sparked the same enthusiasm about science fair in her younger brother. SARSEF affords young people the support and encouragement needed to dream big. By providing outreach to teachers and students, SARSEF helps children develop skills and gain confidence to use their unique abilities and perspectives to solve challenging problems in their homes, communities and the world.

I have the good fortune to be a volunteer for SARSEF. Seeing the incredible work this organization does is a constant source of amazement and inspiration to me. With a very small staff this group accomplishes so much. They are best known for the SARSEF Science Fair, that gives thousands of budding scientists a chance to develop critical thinking skills. They learn how to work through a problem from hypothesis to testing to reporting results and gain the confidence that comes from having their work celebrated. Seeing the excitement of kids from Kindergarten to High School who make it to SARSEF and the pride of their parents and teachers is a privilege and a joy.

I am particularly grateful to SARSEF for giving me the opportunity to take the experience of a 30-year career in the corporate world and apply it in a completely new context, as well as learn new skills. I thoroughly enjoy every minute I spend with the organization. And I feel that the SARSEF mission to create the next generation of critical thinkers has never been as important as it is today. SARSEF is a genuine Tucson treasure.

SARSEF is the go-to organization for inspiring and supporting young people to explore science and engineering research in southern AZ! They support student researchers through helping K-12 teachers promote classroom research, connecting students to mentor scientists and engineers, offering lab experiences for students, and, of course, allowing students to present their research and complete for their many scholarships. Every member of their staff and board of advisors champion for building an inclusive and more open environment for ALL young people to explore their potential in research.

My children have participated in SARSEF many times over the year, including winning recognition. It has been a highlight of their school year. It is wonderful to see them so engaged in science!

Both of my children were fortunate to have teachers who encouraged their student to participate in STEM-related activities. From their third grade, all throughout their senior high school year, both my sons conducted research projects for their science courses. Most of their projects were selected by their schools to be presented at the SARCEF "big year event" at the Tucson Convention Center. I'd like to thank SARCEF for the role they play in our community, for their leadership in organizing these annual events, and for promoting STEM-related activities.
Both my sons received numerous awards for their research projects, especially my youngest son who got multiple high-prized and prestigious awards from private companies, including scholarships and grant's monies. I strongly believe that their participation in these events led to their successful and fulfilling careers. My oldest son (Mario) is working at a Tucson clinic as a P.A. My youngest (Diego) is currently finishing up his masters in chemical engineering at Willamette University and has already been offered an internship at the Los Alamos National Institute where he will be working developing polymers for NASA.
Thank you SARCEF for encouraging and supporting ALL the future scientists in our community.

It was a great experience for me when I served as a judge for elementary science fair in 2018.
The event was massive and very interactive among judges, organizers and students.
The set-up and venue were impressive to me.

SARSEF is a great non-profit aimed at supplementing science learning. Many are aware of the amazing science fair they hold each year but some of the true value in SARSEF is their k-12 programming. Some of my fondest memories in school have been of extraordinary science projects that made me think of how fascinating this world can be; SARSEF provides that type of learning!

Children are born natural scientists, curious about the world around them. As a parent and educator for over 30 years, I always delighted in sparking a deeper interest in the sciences with both of my sons (now both are Mechanical Engineers) and with the students in my charge. As a SARSEF Site coordinator, I was always in awe of how well organized the annual science fair was conducted, and how excited my students were to develop their projects to submit. So much learning takes place in an authentic way by being part of SARSEF.

Now, as a SARSEF volunteer I continue to be awed at the professionalism, and wild enthusiasm of every member of the SARSEF team. Together, they carry a torch that lights the way for unimaginable future scientific breakthroughs and innovation, as well as fostering a love of learning. I cannot say enough about this wonderful organization.

I’ve been involved with SARSEF as a science fair judge and general advocate for SARSEF and STEM for almost 15 years. This organization dedicates itself selflessly to helping students get involved, and stay involved, in science. The leadership is extraordinary. The recently appointed director is a vibrant young woman that I’ve known for 20 years. She tirelessly advocates and provides guidance to young people in science and technology . I’ve been involved with many nonprofit organizations in my life, and I can honestly say that this one is in my top five - for passion, leadership, and commitment. I’m proud to be associated with it.

I've been a Board member of SARSEF for 5 years and have been impressed with its growth over that time. Our Board has actively sought out opportunities to develop and learn in order to be more focused in our mission, and more effective in our outreach execution. We've increased the range of our programs, getting into more schools, as well as increased the number of programs. Our staff have been applying best practices in order for us to measure our effectiveness, so we can clearly see our successes, and work on those areas where we know we can do better.

In the end, we are here for the children. We strongly believe in our mission to help develop critical thinkers and problem solvers, because they will be the ones making their community a better place. I'm happy to be part of an organization that has maintained its enthusiasm for this goal, and plan to remain involved with it for years to come.

I have been involved with SARSEF going back more than 2 decades when I was a judge for several years. I became more involved again about 10 years ago as a judge and more recently on it Board of Directors. SARSEF plays a major and unique role in providing STEM opportunities for thousands of students in Southern Arizona and has more recently provided professional development for teachers. It is an organization that I am proud to be a part of both as a Director and as a judge. While I can only put one "role" down below, I am a volunteer and also have professional expertise in this field. In the past, I have also been an advisor and a continuing donor,

Great organization! I have volunteered at the annual science fair as a judge and as a board member. My experience with the children has proven the organization is successful in generating critical thinking skills in children K-12. All kids feel a great sense of pride and accomplishment in their projects. The children involved in SARSEF come from different backgrounds and demographics and truly stand out as best of the best! The staff and other board members are incredibly intelligent and caring individuals who's focus is on our young ones!

Thanks to SARSEF and their work in promoting Critical Thinking and Problem Solving among students across all grades.

By doing science fair and participating in STEM events hosted by SARSEF, both my kid are more engaged and familiar with science. They had won several awards and even scholarships for college education. I owe my kids confidence not only in making it easy for them to understand Science, but also thought them to be good at math and statistics to show the result of the work. They also become good readers, by reviewing research papers related to the experiments they do. The confidence they gained by talking to judges every year help them to learn the techniques to give a elevated pitch of the project they do and this builds the leaders in them. So SARSEF is just not improving the STEM but also developing future leaders from Southern Arizona. I would like to thank SARSEF for all the things they do. Keep up the good work!

SARSEF is an amazing organization in Southern Arizona which helps kids think critically and solve problems through STEM education. Not only do they directly support and work with K12 kids, they also support teachers and parents!

They run a number of programs throughout the year including one of the biggest science fairs in the country - reaching thousands of students every year. They also bring together dozens of companies and community organizations to help students understand more about STEM careers at events throughout the year as well.

From my work-life to retirement, I have been involved with SARSEF, which teaches critical thinking and problem solving through science K-12. Over those years, I have personally witnessed the many youngsters whose lives have been changed by discovering success through their own persistence and hard work. Completing a science project produces no wrong answers; outcomes may not be as expected, but it's all part of learning. Failure is impossible. How exciting it is for a child to achieve success? I see this at SARSEF every day, and know that our future is in good hands.

They help train children to think very critically, especially young kids starting at kindergarten and in underprivelaged schools. They are a great forum for kids to discover the fun and importance of doing and talking science.

This is a long standing non profit with a smart, strategic plan to get kids interested in STEM. By introducing kids to fun, hands-on activities that use science & engineering concepts they are teaching critical thinking skills. SARSEF is doing their part to help build the next generation of innovative, problem solvers. Can't say enough good things about them!

This nonprofit organization is a leader in bringing meaningful science, technology, engineering and mathematics into the lives of young people. I am fortunate to have been a recipient of training provided to educators by SARSEF member Brooke Meyers. Under the leadership of Kathleen Bethel, this group of dedicated advocates have made great gains in raising community awareness. SARSEF focuses attention on the future of our children in an ever changing world.

Arizona is in desperate need of help with education but especially STEM! SARSEF is helping to fill part of the big void our current public education system has!

Hosts an AMAZING science fair that elevates the work of underserved students. Just incredible!

SARSEF is a fabulous nonprofit for students and teachers in Arizona! The organizers travel to our schools in Yuma for outreach and guidance for science projects. The competition that they put on is a wonderful event. My students love attending Future Innovators' Night! They engage the public with STEM activities and entertainment. The event is better than the science fair for the whole state!

SARSEF supports students, teachers and parents to embrace critical thinking through project based science and they do an outstanding job.

Thanks to SARSEF and their work in promoting science fairs across all grades, my daughter is more engaged and familiar with science. She was fortunate enough to win awards two years in a row and I now have a son going into kindergarten who is already thinking of his project! Keep up the good work!

SARSEF is a true gift and treasure of Southern Arizona providing hundreds of teaching opportunities to both students and educadors.

One of the most inspiring organizations in the country. This k-12 science fair is changing the way children engage with science.

What an asset to the community and the children! SARSEF is simply amazing from their events to their outreach!

SARSEF is an amazing opportunity for my students to grow and love STEM education! They're always excited for the oppertunity to participate!

The SARSEF has been a wonderful organization to work with. The students get so much out of making science projects. It takes a lot resources to keep it going. Help out if you can.

Over the years, I have seen this program expand greatly. Not only are they focused on helping to make our students great thinkers, but they also want to give them a valuable experience in doing so. Teachers, parents, and students have been impressed with the attention to detail, and planning that is put in to all SARSEF events. Last year, we attended the awe-inspiring fair at the TCC. The students and parents were shocked by the amount of projects that were there to see, as well as the variety of information that we were able to gain by walking through the projects. Additionally, teachers, students, and family members attended the Future Innovators Night. We all were impressed with the quantity and variety of things to do and see there. It was a great time, and we look forward to these events every year.

An extraordinary organization that helps kids see the fun & rewarding side of STEM !
They provide free outreach to schools (K-12th grade) to talk to students, teachers & parents about how to go about starting a science project. The organization also supports a Future Innovators Night on the Friday of the SARSEFair for a more hands on experience of STEM - this is always a big hit and inspiring!

Very dedicated organization working to improve the quality of STEM education in our region of the country. Arizona is currently rated extremely low when it comes to education in the US, and it takes the work of organizations like SARSEF to augment and enhance the opportunities for our students and teachers. SARSEF is also very dedicated to providing teacher enrichment programs to help them be better prepared in teaching STEM curriculum.

Had an amazing trip to ISEF with this group! They did all of the grunt work and made the international science fair a wonderful experience for both my student and me.

SARSEF has benefited generations of young southern Arizonans by opening a door to the wonders of science understanding and creating a curiosity about our world that changes lives. I first encountered SARSEF as a young woman, employed at our local Science Center. I had worked in theater and other jobs without much focus and was astonished to discover such a diverse group of dedicated citizens who wanted to support public education, teachers, families, and especially children, by hosting a regional science fair each year that connected them to the amazing science resources in our community. Through my volunteering with SARSEF over the years, I have had the honor to work with top scientists, talented school teachers and community leaders. I have been amazed by children's creativity, spontaneity and sheer joy at using simple to very complex systems thinking to work through an interesting problem or hypothesis and report on outcomes. We are a science community and I can say that with pride because SARSEF has been there building a strong foundation for every child and connecting them to a better future.

SARSEF is Arizona's most impactful STEM organization reaching 60,000 K-12 students to participate in experimental science and math.

SARSEF is a motivating force for young scientists in Southern Arizona. What an experience it is to judge projects in March, and see what the students' creativity has come up with for projects. I have judged kids who I have later seen in YouTube videos, and some doing TED talks. These young people are the future, and SARSEF helps to get them on their way.

SARSEF is the best planned and managed science fair in Arizona! It is run by dedicated and efficient people. As a teacher of a student who went onto the next level of competition, I realized the amount of planning, fund-raising, and basically hard work that goes on behind-the-scenes. My student is motivated to pursue a career in science as result of the SARSEF and beyond experience. Keep up the good work and thank you!

Excellent foundation with extremely valuable events and resources for educators, parents, and students. Terrific SARSEF presenters who inspire students to think of genuine, unique, Science Fair projects (they will come to your school to present). The process of participating in SARSEF is a valuable, educational experience for any K-12 student and covers so many of the Az State Science Standards. I highly recommend!

My students at Prince Elementary had a wonderful time conducting and writing their Science Fair projects. They worked mostly in groups and did the work at school.Our school is a Title I school and our students are economically challenged.They had so much fun and talked about their projects with anyone who would listen. It was really meaningful.

As the Vice President on the Board of Directors for SARSEF, I can say I am completely dedicated to the mission and vision of this organization. As we move into the future with the help of Social Venture Partners, I am excited to see where we will go and what lies ahead. I know of no other organization who is more committed to bring high quality STEM experiences to ALL of our students in Southern Arizona. Our outreach impacts tens of thousands of students and hundreds of educators EACH year and growing! So proud to work with all those involved in this effort!

SARSEF is an organization that is devoted to making a difference in the lives of many southern Arizona students. Providing not only the well-known yearly regional fair, SARSEF also attends many community functions sharing STEM related learning for all. Educational Outreach makes themselves available to all schools from Yuma to Douglas and Florence to Nogales that want to inspire students in STEM education. This organization will truly make a difference in the future of our community and country as it challenges students to identify problems and determine solutions that affect us all! Students who participate in SARSEF will have the skills to be successful adults adding to our work force with 21st century skills that are sought by employers. A devoted board and staff drive this organization forward!

They are doing an excellent job helping students (our future leaders) excel in science and math.

SARSEF helped inspire my interest in science when I was a kid!

Education is the foundation of our future!
Science and engineering better our tomorrows!

They do a great job in an important area. Education in the science and engineering areas is crucial to our future.

I love everything they do for children and the community!!

This is a very important event that encourages the kids of the next generation to think outside of the box. Events like this can help foster their interests in science and engineering, and hopefully one day turn them into a scientist or engineer! Or at the least, an inquisitive soul with an itch to make things better.

I've worked with Sarsef as a judge at their major Sarsef event. I found the experience rewarding for me and I learned so much. The event was well run and I got to meet so many interesting people as we judged the student's projects. I'm sure the students also found the experience rewarding too.

Participating in their science fair was my first opportunity to experiment with plant genetics. It furthered my interest and helped solidify my desire to be a science major in college!

SARSEF is an incredible resource for K12 students, teachers and the entire Tucson community. We need young STEM talent to move into career pathways that keep our community strong -- and SARSEF makes that happen!

SARSEF is a great organization for getting science and engineering into Southern Arizona Rural Communities! It is wonderful that they offer so many free resources and services. Many teachers and children are impacted by this organization.

SARSEF is one of those organizations you just rely on. The instruction, ongoing mentoring, and actual competition that they engender for students (and teachers) is nothing short of amazing. Our science fairs have turned into "science phenomenals". My students have become more engaged and not only look forward to competitions more; they're positively joyous about it. I can't imagine having to do without their support anymore. They've become more of a fixture that someone/something just helping out.

I volunteer for this organization and also help organize Science Fair at an elementary school. The support I get from this organization is so great. Every year the students are so eager to get selected to enter into SARSEF. They really motivate students to pursue a STEM career.

I volunteer every year and every year it gets better!

I've volunteered as a science fair judge, and my organization Sky Island Alliance love to donate special awards every year. Our volunteers have also expressed how significant and meaningful it was to judge the awards on our behalf. The children's projects are so inspiring! A a scientist myself, I know these experiences and the encouragement they receive are crucial to raising the next generation of smart, passionate scientists. SARSEF needs your support!

I began volunteering as a judge approximately three years ago. I have been very impressed by the organization and its commitment to science education in southern Arizona.

I have worked with SARSEF for over 20 years as judge, parent, volunteer, and Board member. This group does amazing work getting thousands of children involved in science projects every year. The leadership gets out into the community and works very hard to raise awareness and support for its mission. It acts as a model for science fairs all across the USA.

As a participant of Sarsef I have had a fantastic experience, I have won many prizes and had the opertunity to attend the international science fair and win scholarship money. None of this would have been possible for me without Sarsef

SARSEF is an incredible organization which encourages kids of all ages to explore the fields of math and science through creative projects. The knowledge and experience of scientific methods these young individuals gain is invaluable. As a frequent judge, I am always impressed by the creativity and amazing thought processes of the young minds in our community. Math and science professionals will be keeping this country afloat in the future and this organization is playing a huge part in nurturing this process.

My company gets to blow things up for kids. As such, we get to meet a lot of the representatives of local educational institutions. Our time with the people from SARSEF has been some of the best. They are professional and hard-working. They handle themselves with grace and humor. Even more than what they specifically do, their efforts provide a lot of the framework in which science education gets done in Tucson. Things in southern AZ are better because of SARSEF.

My first experience with SARSEF was when my daughter entered a project at her school and then attended the regional fair. I was able to see first-hand the pride and feeling of accomplishment she had as she received her award. Since then I have volunteered at the regional fair and provided support as a community partner. Now I have an opportunity to advocate for this amazing organization as a board member. I am so excited to be a part of this STEM legacy in southern Arizona, helping kids of all ages feel that same sense of accomplishment.

SARSEF provides educational outreach to students of all ages so that they can compete in the annual Regional Science Fair. There are over 75,000 children in Southern Arizona that are involved and benefit from SARSEF's efforts. It never ceases to amaze me the value of SARSEF when I see the science projects presented at the Science Fair each year. I am truly inspired by these kids.

I was pretty sure in 1965, that my entry in the Southern AZ Regional Science Fair would be my 1st and last contact with the fair or the organizers. Happily, I was wrong! In time, both of our daughters competed at SARSEF ... with investigations which put mine to shame (bragging parent). In 1992 I was asked to be a judge at SARSEF, and gladly agreed. The 21 years that followed have been remarkable. I was asked to serve on the SciEnTeK-12 Foundation Board 11 years ago and have had the pleasure of working with a spectacular array of scientists, engineers, educators, students and community volunteers. Literally thousands of projects have passed through SARSEF during my tenure, each demonstrating that our future is in very good hands ... and that the herculean efforts of this organization are important. The SciEnTeK-12 Foundation has focused for decades on "Exciting Young Minds about Science & Engineering". Seldom have I seen a more united, and effective, volunteer effort in support of such a future-looking cause.

I first experienced the Southern Arizona Regional Science and Engineering Fair when I was a sophomore in high school. This was the first time I was ever exposed to a science fair and I only participated because it was a requirement at the charter school I was attending. I thought my project was ridiculous and insignificant but I met people at the fair that were encouraging, and optimistic. Judges praised aspects of my project that I did not think mattered and they made me feel like I had potential in science. Everyone at the fair made my experience one of the best I have ever had in my high school career.
I was shocked at how advanced some of the other projects were, and I noticed that most of them were from Tucson Magnet High School. I visited SARSEF everyday just to look at the projects because they amazed me so much. Attending the fair made me want to pursue science, work on a better project and be more competitive, so I transferred to Tucson High School so that I can learn from the best Science Teacher in Arizona. I received the opportunity to work in a lab at the University of Arizona where I worked on a project for two years. By the time I was a senior in high school, I had the science project of my dreams and I was so proud. At SARSEF, I won scholarships, medals and the opportunity to compete at the International Science Fair. For the first time of my life, I had the opportunity to go to college which was an opportunity that no one in my family has ever had.
I am currently a junior at the University of Arizona pursuing a degree in Microbiology and I am also a board member. When I was asked to join the board, I felt more honor than when I received my awards at the SARSEF. It is an honor to be a part of the non-profit that changed my life and I am proud to represent SciEnTek-12. I will forever be grateful for everything they have done for me and I am happy to be on a team that aims to excite student about science, and change their live. SciEnTeK-12 is the best!

Although I am presently a board member, I first became involved with the Southern Arizona Regional Science and Engineering Fair as a home-schooling parent in 2000. It quickly became a yearly "must do" for our family. The fair challenged my boys to think critically, plan, organize, research, interact with scientists during the judging process and really understand the scientific process. It solidified my older son's desire to be an engineer, and drew my younger son into the same field. Both boys were able to excel and exceed their dreams and expectations through the fair, particularly when they were selected to compete at the international level and receive college scholarship awards. SARSEF encouraged, supported and challenged them through every experience, and the board and volunteers made them feel like family. Both boys credit SARSEF with changing their lives and positively impacting their futures.

I have been involved with the SciEnTeK-12 Foundation for the better part of 15 years. The regional science and engineering fair is has always had a large number of very high quality projects that exceeds expectations every year. A tremendous job by everyone involved.

My participation in SARSEF began as a student in the Third Grade. I wasn't very skilled in sports and had always quietly envied the shiny trophies my friends had for soccer and swimming. Then I completed my first research project. I not only investigated a topic I was truly interested in at the time (where bugs like to live), but my effort was rewarded with a beautiful trophy with my name on it. That was enough to light the fire. I continued to enter SARSEF year after year, each time gaining more skill in the scientific process, each time researching something I loved and each time getting the encouragement I needed to continue.

I ended up attending the International Science and Engineering Fair five times- all expenses paid by SARSEF. I won a top award (2nd, 1st, and special awards) three of those visits. i was sent to Washington DC twice, and to China to compete in research further. i had so many incredible opportunities opened to me due to the overwhelming support and generosity of SciEnTeK-12 that the best way I can attempt to quantify it is by explaining that due to my participation in SARSEF, i earned over $180,000 in scholarships. And yet that doesn't come close to portraying what completing a research project and gaining the life-skills necessary to explain it to a professional does for a student's confidence.

I have served as a member of the Board of Directors since the moment I completed my last Science Fair competition, and did so while completing my higher education- currently culminating in a Master of Science. I am passionate about bringing the SARSEF experience to every student in the Southern Arizona region, and empowering every child to believe that they can be successful in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. SARSEF not only has the antidotal evidence for student achievement, but one of the best records for student success at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair. Over 1,800 students competed in SARSEF last year, representing over 52,000 students who competed to get there. We are committed to expanding the opportunity to succeed in STEM.

I've been judging for the SARSEF science fair since 1996 and it has been one of the most rewarding volunteer experiences I've engaged in. So much so, I agreed to become a Board member when I retired. It's a wonderful feeling to know you've helped encouraged a talented young person to continue with an interest in science from High School and on into college. The amount of thought and work the students put into their projects shows through every year. Also, SARSEF is one of the few science fair programs in the country to have full, yearly participation for grades K-12. The experience each student gets in presenting their project in a public forum will benefit them for the rest of their lives.

I was first exposed to SciEnTeK-12 Foundation some 7 years ago when a member came to a nearby elementary school to introduce the whole Science Fair system to the kids there. Paula Johnson told my son all about what a science fair is and the kinds of things he might get to do if he got involved.

This sounded interesting to him and soon he started looking for science learning opportunities the way some kids look for candy.

As each year passed we noticed a consistency and growth at the Southern Arizona Science and Engineering Fair (SARSEF).

The consistency was quality. The fair is run like a well-oiled machine. The SciEnTeK-12 Foundation is responsible for SARSEF and its operation.

The growth was in the SARSEF fair itself. Year after year the space occupied at the Tucson Convention Center (TCC) seemed to grow and grow. Incredibly, I heard that in 2013 they had well over 1700 projects!

Thank you SciEnTeK-12 Foundation for this fabulous activity!

As an educator I have been involved with SciEnTek-12 Foundation over the years. The foundation has provided students all over southern Arizona with an opportunity to delve into the scientific process, rewarding students for their creativity and hard work. I have also had the pleasure of volunteering as a judge. Meeting scientists and other professionals at this event has enhanced my teaching abilities.
The foundation is very organized and well run, the top priority is the students and this is evident in all that they do! The Southern Arizona Regional Science Fair and the Math, Science and Technology FunFest are an integral part of this community!

I have been a member of the SARSEF advisory board for several years now, and I really find everyone involved in the organization not simply dedicated and amazingly effective, but downright inspirational. Their focus in attracting as many students as possible to participate in the science fair is nothing short of phenomenal. I do whatever I can to help and consider it a privilege to be in the company of such an intelligent, hard-working and highly accomplished group.

I participated in science fairs as a student back in the early 1970s, and have been "paying back" since 1992 as a judge, prize solicitor, and now board member with SciEnTeK-12 Foundation. Our board, advisors, and volunteers are among the most committed I have seen anywhere, Stimulating kids' minds to engage in scientific research is a wonderful pursuit, and seeing our students go on to careers in science/math/engineering/technology is a true gift.

I became involved in SciEnTeK-12 first as a parent. The organization literally changed my daughter's life -and in the end - mine. Because of her success through science, she attended college for free due to the scholarships and prize money that she was awarded. And as a result, I became more involved in the organization. I wanted others to have the valuable learning experiences and be encouraged just as much as she was.
Now, as a board member, I am proud to represent SciEnTeK-12 and make sure that every student has the same opportunities despite where they may reside. I love that this organization is committed to that as well. They have a vision and nothing compromises that. The kids come first. With no employes and no overhead (offices) they put their contributions right to serving the students. I like that. I highly recommend this organization for its transparency and authentic caring about students.

I have been involved with SARSEF since 1988 and am a founding member of the SciEnTeK-12 Foundation. This is an organization made of extremely dedicated volunteers whose sole goal is to assist in the education and encouragement of K-12th grade students in the sciences, engineering and technology fields - the future!!

I have volunteered and worked with SciEnTeK-12 Foundation for over ten years now, and can tell you that the work being done by the foundation to enrich the experience of the Southern Arizona Research, Science, and Engineering Fair (SARSEF) is phenomenal. The SciEnTeK-12 Foundation is responsible for putting together SARSEF, and to provide educational outreach throughout Southern Arizona, actually going into the classroom to provide students with information on the scientific method, and other vital information about science, engineering and research. SARSEF is an experience that all children should have, and that is why the SciEnTeK-12 Foundation is a much needed and valued resource in our community.

This is a super bunch that does great work! I'm new to the advisory board and also a vendor for their new website and database. They are a joy to work with and the community is fortunate to have such a leading edge Science Fair.

This is a fantastic organization and they obviously care about "encouraging youth in science and engineering" as their tag line states.

I have worked in the for profit sector and not for profit sector, but my association iwth the Science, Engineering & Technology-Kindergarten to 12th Grade Foundation (SciEnTeK-12 Foundation) is indeed the most heartwarming and self satisfying orgaization I have ever worked for in my over 60 years in the workplace.

The work this group does, with 800 or more volunteers at the Math Science and Technology FunFest and the Southern Arizona Regional Science and Engineering Fair (SARSEF) is nothing short of incredible. We have had the opportunity to interest kids, even in kindergaten, to pursue the tough stuff in math and science, and to go into incredible careers. Careers from mangement in a Mars mission, engineers, medical doctors, teachers, researchers and entrepeneurs. I don't know it can get any better than that.

Jack D Johnson, a SciEnTeK-12, FunFest, and SARSEF volunteer for life.

This foundation has been running the Southern Arizona Regional Science and Engineering Fair and helped bring the Math Science and Technology FunFest to the full Southern Arizona Community. The delight of seeing these outstanding youngsters go Wow! over what they see and do at the FunFest is so rewarding and and then to see so many who compete and are rewarded for their hard work is what makes this volunteer activity the best job I have ever had!

SARSEF is a wonderful organization which helps school-aged children learn about science in a competitive and rewarding way. I have participated in a science fair and won a trip to the International Science and Engineering Fair. My experiences at SARSEF and ISEF will last a lifetime, and I am so glad that I was able to experience science in the fun, different and interactive way SARSEF provides.

SARSEF-The Southern Arizona Regional Science and Engineering Fair has done some great educational programs for our community. The fun fair, interaction with experts in the sciences with children in a hands-on fair. How about hovering on air? yes, these folks supplied the hovercraft. How does holding a human brain feel? You could hold one at the fair. Great stuff for kids of all ages.

I had an amazing time! Definitely the best time of my life! I really hope to get in next year too, because it was really a revelation.

This program offered an experience that has inspired me to get more involved in scientific research outside of school. It was way more then I ever expected to get out of science fair.

SARSEF is, in my opinion, the most organized and well run science fair in Arizona. I have enjoyed their fairs much more than AzSEF, which is the state fair.

This organization proves to be a great way for getting high school and middle school students involved and excited to exceed in science.

My child participated in the science fair. I attended the fair. When my child won a prize in the local fair, she attended the International Science Fair in San Jose, California. Involvement in the science fair, and with the other children who participated in science fair has done more to stimulate her interest in science, than any science teacher or science class she has taken up to this point. She wants to continue with science fair in high school on her own, although her school does not offer the opportunity in a classroom setting. This program motivates kids to participate in science, which is missing in curriculum in Arizona.

This organization gets students interested in a career in science. It motivates young people to come back year after year with better experiments.

Q: How to help community members to understand the value of our effort to improve scinece deucation and put our youngsters on the path to better paying jobs, ultimatly changing our community'sreprestation as a low-wage town -- one that loses efforats to bring more manufacturing to the area due to an insufficient skilled workforce? A: Create a Mayors' Future Innovators Night during Fair week to allow parents and teachers to see the work of othors and to recogioze the value of competition to get kids hooked on science and math early in their academic careers. Big names and a major sponsor helped draw the crowds; games, hands-on activities and gimmicks kept them involved and entertained. But this is just one small example of creativioty and innovation of the SciEnTek012 Foudnation. The key to the overall success of SARSEF students over the years, and what has kept the organization's Fair alive for more than 40 years is the strong, perservering and dedicated leadership of this all-volunteer effort -- a more valuable asset than any single sponsosr, funder or other asset.

Going through the process involved in competing at SARSEF was by far the most challenging, and also most enriching, experience that my daughter has had. This went far beyond "just a science fair." It has instilled a true love of science in her, as well as the confidence to direct her own learning and explore her world. That's pretty hefty for a five (now six) year old!

The Science Fair was an incredible experience for the girls. Not only did they get to see interesting projects from different schools and grades but they are now committed to participating over and over again. Thanks SciEnTeK-12 for getting these girls so enthused about science.

SciEnTeK-12 Foundation has been crucial in exposing southern Arizona students to various science, engineering, and technological ideas and projects for many years. Without their direct and purposeful work along with the support of local companies, Tucson area students would not have the opportunities the explore science and technology to the degree that they have. Since 2004, my upper elementary and middle school students have left the FUNFEST filled with excitement and appreciation for science. The continuing opportunity for students to participate in SARSEF allows them a chance to hone their research and

The SciEnTek-12 foundation is the non-profit that runs the Southern Arizona Regional Science and Engineering Fair every year for children all over the southern part of the state. I participated in the fairs for ten years, and the amount of guidance and support that SciEnTek-12 had to offer is what directly lead to my career as a scientist today. I value what they did for me so much that I come back as a volunteer each year at the fair and try to help raise money for this fantastic cause when I can.

The SciEnTek-12 Foundation is an important part of my professional and personal life. As a new teacher, many years ago, I was terrified of science. One of my mentors encouraged me to enter the SARSEF science fair. The information provided was clear and the experience rewarding. One of my favorite projects that a class created was "If you are happy and you know it, will your face really show it?" The kindergarten class took a favorite song and applied the scientific method to it and discovered through observation and testing that yes, if you are happy and you know it your face will really show it. It was especially powerful for my students on the autism spectrum. As a parent, the science fair has encouraged a lifelong love of science in my 12 year old. He won prizes in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade and cannot wait to enter as a middle school student.

My first encounter with SciEnTeK-12 was in the 2nd grade, when I participated in the annual Science Fair. By my senior year in high school, the fair had helped me win scholarships, compete nationally and get my first job. I continued to participate in the fair as a volunteer after graduating from high school, wanting to pass on that experience to others. This work is so important, because many students have no other opportunity to experience science and engineering first-hand; to explore their own questions and come up with their own answers. The SciEnTek-12 Foundation performs a vital role in the community by providing a place for K-12 students to encounter real-life scientists and do their own research. Everyone involved with SciEnTek-12 is passionate about getting kids excited about science and engineering.

Our son participated in his first science fair ever last year through the SciEnTeK-12 Foundation's SARSEF Science Fair. It was an excellent chance for him to get some hands-on experience with science concepts and procedures. He worked very hard and was proud of his achievements. Go SciEnTeK-12!

I had a great time reviewing projects and then meeting with other judges to pick our top choices. Was a great experience and have to say it has been so much fun I make a point to do it each year. Make sure you add time for student interviews after lunch...give the kids practice for when they reach the high school projects and its interesting to see how they went about doing their projects. I never fail to learn something new.