On Saturday, April 11, the SHPE chapter at Virginia Commonwealth University welcomed U.S. Senator Tim Kaine to their Día de Ciencias, a program that brings hands-on learning and college readiness experiences to K-12 students and their families as they consider a future in STEM.

More than 50 students and family members participated in a full day of activities, including a Lego manufacturing lab, a civil engineering lab, a campus tour, and a financial literacy workshop on budgeting and planning for college. Industry partners also provided students and families with an up-close look at STEM field opportunities, with local professionals sharing insights about their roles and career backgrounds.

To kick off the day, Senator Kaine offered remarks in both English and Spanish, then spent the remainder of his visit at each station alongside VCU chapter members, who walked him through the activities and explained how each one strengthened the academic foundation students need to pursue STEM in higher education.

Conversations extended well beyond the activity tables, as chapter members spoke candidly with the Senator about their own STEM journeys, their experience as SHPE members, and the chapter’s commitment to growing their impact in the Richmond community. It was a unique and meaningful opportunity for students to engage directly with a sitting U.S. Senator on the issues that matter the most to their futures.

This initiative builds on the work many chapters have put forth to host Congressional staff at programs like Día de Ciencias, Noche de Ciencias, and Equipando Padres. Having Senator Kaine attend marks a milestone, not just for the VCU chapter, but for SHPE, as this was the first time a U.S. Senator participated in-person at a local event. This achievement reflects the initiative, preparation, and dedication of our chapters and their commitment to demonstrating the impact they have as STEM professionals and community leaders.

Special thanks go out to the VCU chapter, their advisor, and our industry partners for their leadership and generous support in making this event a success. 

Taking the step toward hosting an elected official at a chapter event starts with preparation. SHPE’s Government Relations team works directly with chapters to help them get there. If your chapter is ready to take that first step, reach out at [email protected] to get started!