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Philippe Reekie is the driving force behind our engaging school visits program, where he connects with students from kindergarten to twelfth grade. The HCO is on a mission to make science not just educational, but downright exhilarating, igniting a spark of curiosity about the universe and inspiring children to dream big.
We proudly aim to break stereotypes about who can be a scientist and demonstrate that passion and curiosity have no boundary. With uplifting and interactive talks, along with dynamic science workshops, our objective is to leave a lasting impression on every young mind we encounter. Together, we’re reaching for the stars and inspiring the next generation of scientists.
Please visit our Outreach page to see our other outreach initiatives!
Spark 2024 – STEM Fair in Dorchester – October 2024
On October 25th, Philippe Reekie and astronomer Ernesto Camacho Iñiguez organized and facilitated a space science engagement booth in Dorchester. Together, they connected with students from a school where 98% identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC), creating an inviting space for them to explore the universe and envision futures in STEM. The fair’s activities ranged from building rockets to exploring planets to learning about the trailblazing women of Harvard in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These experiences were not just educational; they were seeds of inspiration. Students lit up with curiosity, serving a powerful reminder that the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning. Events like this highlight the crucial role of representation in STEM and the impact of meaningful engagement. They demonstrate to students that they belong in science—that their ideas, stories, and dreams are significant and that they too can lead the discoveries of tomorrow.
Buckingham Browne & Nichols School – May 2024
The HCO visited Buckingham Browne & Nichols School (MA), where we captivated a large classroom of eager young minds with a fascinating discussion on black holes. The conversation delved into how we can image these mysterious cosmic objects, the tantalizing possibilities of time travel, and the hypothetical experience of falling into a black hole. The students were full of curiosity, asking insightful questions about the latest advancements in astrophysics and the nature of the universe. Our visit not only ignited a passion for science among the students but also emphasized the importance of cultivating a diverse and inclusive future generation of scientists. The event was incredibly memorable for all, igniting enthusiasm for the boundless opportunities in the field of space exploration and the cutting edge research taking place at the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian.
Benjamin Brown School – April 2024
The HCO had the pleasure of visiting the Benjamin Brown School (MA), where we engaged in a delightful discussion with over 250 curious young minds. The conversation spanned a variety of fascinating topics, from solar eclipses to the groundbreaking science unfolding at the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian, to the significance of DEI initiatives within the scientific community. The students were eager to learn and asked insightful questions, demonstrating a keen interest in the wonders of the universe and the advancements in scientific research. Our visit not only inspired these young students but also highlighted the importance of nurturing a diverse and inclusive future generation of scientists. The event was a resounding success, leaving both us and the students excited about the endless possibilities for what our next generation space scientists can achieve.
Cambridgeport School – February 2024
The HCO visited Cambridgeport School (MA), where we engaged with about 200 curious young minds. The discussion centered around the importance of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in space science, emphasizing that anyone can become a scientist. We highlighted the inspiring journeys of famous African American women astronauts, such as Mae Jemison, the first African American woman in space, and Jeanette Epps, who is set to make history with her upcoming missions. The students’ curiosity was palpable as they asked insightful questions about the role of DEI in scientific research at Harvard and the impact of representation in STEM fields. Our visit not only ignited a spark of inspiration among the students but also underscored the significance of fostering a diverse and inclusive community of future scientists. The event was an overwhelming success, leaving everyone buzzing with excitement about the limitless potential of scientific exploration.
