The Challenger Learning Center of Tallahassee, a leading K-12 STEM outreach initiative of the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, recently hosted two highly successful events as part of the Florida State University Festival of the Creative Arts (FCA). This marked an exciting first-time collaboration, uniting faculty, students, and staff from various disciplines to deliver engaging, art-infused experiences centered around space exploration, creativity, and the spirit of discovery.
On Saturday, February 8th, the Challenger Learning Center Tallahassee presented “Shakespeare and the Stars.” This unique event beautifully blended literature, space science, and the arts. Participants, including K-12 students and their families, explored the fascinating connections between Shakespeare’s timeless works and the vast cosmos. Interactive art projects, captivating music sessions, and hands-on activities were led by experts from FSU’s English, Art Education, and Music Education departments, alongside the Challenger Learning Center team and even members of the renowned Flying High Circus. The event’s creative and hands-on approach deeply resonated with attendees.
The excitement continued on Sunday, February 9th, with “Storytime Under the Stars,” a magical evening tailored for young children and families. Guests were enchanted under the Fogg Planetarium’s celestial dome, listening to classic stories in an immersive setting. Christine Hansen, program manager for the Askew Student Life Center, served as the special FCA Storybook Reader, bringing the stories to life with her engaging storytelling style.
Alan Hanstein, executive director of the Challenger Learning Center Tallahassee, expressed his enthusiasm: “This collaboration truly highlighted the magic that occurs when science, art, and imagination converge. Witnessing young minds light up as they connected literature and creativity with the wonders of space reaffirms our mission. We are proud to have partnered with the Festival of the Creative Arts and eagerly anticipate future collaborations.”
Iain Quinn, Festival director and FSU Research Fellow in the Arts and Humanities, echoed this sentiment, stating, “This inaugural FCA collaboration with the Challenger Learning Center has been a resounding success. It was inspiring to see faculty and students from diverse colleges collaborating and engaging with the community. We eagerly look forward to building upon this success next year.”
Both events underscore the Challenger Learning Center Tallahassee’s ongoing dedication to providing innovative, interdisciplinary STEM/STEAM learning opportunities for the Tallahassee community and beyond, fostering a love for science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics through creative and engaging experiences.
For further details about upcoming events and programs, please visit the Challenger Learning Center Tallahassee website at www.challengertlh.com.
