Despite the unfortunate postponement of the second annual Women In STEM (WIS) Night because of East Tennessee floods, co-presidents Lauren Yobst and Lacy Leita did not let that dampen their spirits. Transforming this Halloween-themed event into a success, their creativity and the help of several clubs and organizations helped the WIS club host a perfect evening filled with fun for both volunteers and young students.

Through the involvement of various clubs and organizations including the Robotics Club, Eastman, and the Science National Honors Society, this night was packed with exciting, spooky adventures. Young students from Cherokee Elementary School and Mountain View enjoyed hands-on activities such as making slime, observing a real brain, and learning how to make a beaker disappear through simple laws of science. The event was a fantastic opportunity to inspire young minds about the possibilities of STEM, all while celebrating the season’s spooky spirit.

Lacy Leita, the co-president of the Women In STEM club and founder of WIS Night, was delighted to have such an amazing outcome. She tells us that she thinks “The STEM Night went great! So many children came through and they absolutely loved it! Kids and parents said they will be back over and over!”

So far, STEM Night has made its way to Mountain View Elementary School, fulfilling a personal goal that Lauren had last year where she acknowledged that a lot of “kids don’t have transportation to these events.” Growing in demographics and attendance, this STEM Night has progressed significantly from the first one, and will hopefully continue on this path after the leadership team has graduated.

This STEM Night, now an annual event, will continue to inspire children from across Johnson City as it grows. Whether you’re a student, a volunteer, or a parent, one thing is certain: the future of STEM in East Tennessee is bright, and WIS Night is helping light the way.