For immediate release: January 24, 2013
Contact: Communications Manager, Project WET Foundation | 406-585-4115 | email
Bozeman, Mont.—NBA Legends are lending their "All-Star" power to encourage Houston youth to study science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) at a STEM education festival to be held at Space Center Houston on February 13th. The festival will tip off celebrations around the 62nd NBA All-Star Game, which will be played at Houston's Toyota Center on February 17th.
Space Center Houston (SCH) is teaming up with the National Basketball Retired Players Association-Houston Chapter and the Project WET Foundation to host area students for a day packed with STEM activities. About 1,000 middle and high school students will hear directly from NBA Legends about the importance of studying STEM subjects, explore the engaging exhibits at SCH and participate in hands-on water science activities led by Project WET. Students will also be able to test their skills in a zero-gravity slam dunk chair, enjoy "Deep Sky Objects"—a music and space multi-media performance by Houston's Musiqa ensemble—get players' autographs and visit a booth sponsored by the Houston Rockets.
"The All-Star Science Education Festival brings some of the excitement around the 2013 All-Star Game to the vitally important topic of STEM education," says Dr. Melanie Johnson, JSC's Director of Education. "Young people need strong role models and engaging activities to encourage their involvement in STEM subjects, especially since research shows that young
people who are not excited about STEM by their early teens rarely pursue the fields."
Following the festival, event organizers are inviting the Houston business community to take part in "All-Star" Gazing on Space Center Houston's Zero G patio from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Business leaders can mingle with NBA Legends, SCH officials and Project WET and other education experts to learn how quality STEM education is a solid investment in the future of industry and the nation.
To learn more, contact Reservations at Space Center Houston at 281-283-4755, or visit www.spacecenter.org.
About Space Center Houston: Space Center Houston, NASA Johnson Space Center's Official Visitor's Center, is a 501(c) nonprofit organization that showcases NASA history, artifacts, missions and accomplishments to the public. It is premier educational setting that offers a unique learning experience to students of all ages. Learn more at www.spacecenter.org .
About the Project WET Foundation: Since 1984, the Project WET Foundation has been dedicated to reaching children, parents, teachers and community members of the world with water education to ensure a sustainable planet where water needs are met and all people are good stewards of water. Project WET ("WET" stands for "Water Education for Teachers") is active in all 50 U.S. states and in 60 countries worldwide. Learn more at www.projectwet.org.
About NBRPA-Houston Chapter: A non-profit organization comprised of former NBA, ABA and Harlem Globetrotters, NBRPA-Houston Chapter is committed to developing and utilizing their community stature to support and participate in socially responsible initiatives that focus on, but are not limited to, education, health and children's causes. Learn more at www.nbrpahouston.org.