COLUMBIA, Md., June 1, 2017 /PRNewswire/ — Universities Space Research Association (USRA) announced today the integration of STEMaction, Inc. of Glenwood, Maryland, into its operations. With this acquisition, USRA expands its range of activities to develop the next-generation science and technology workforce through K-12 STEM programs.

Since 1969, STEM activities have been an integral part of USRA’s mission. In addition to advancing space- and aeronautics-related sciences and exploration through innovative research and development, USRA has offered a range of learning opportunities for students, educators and the general public, and has recently ushered in new education programs focused on K-12 learning.

Jeff Isaacson, President and CEO of USRA stated, “We are delighted to integrate the activities of STEMaction Inc. under USRA, and are committed to growing USRA’s role as an innovation hub hosting an expanding array of inspiring and accessible STEM workforce development programs. By building on the great successes of STEMaction and its many dedicated volunteers, USRA hopes to foster a thriving technical workforce for our region and our country. We are especially grateful to Bill Duncan, STEMaction’s Executive Director, for his effective leadership of the organization since 2009.”

Vince DeFrancisci, USRA Vice President, Corporate Strategy and Development said, “USRA’s role in enabling and developing hands-on K-12 STEM education programs will help prepare the next generation of students to fill the pipeline of STEM professional and vocational career opportunities. We are excited to play a part in educating our community’s young people, and to further Maryland’s attractiveness for innovation and future leadership in STEM. USRA looks forward to building upon the programs initiated by STEMaction, Inc.”

Located at USRA headquarters in Columbia, Maryland, the newly created USRA STEMaction Center will expand its reach throughout Maryland and the greater Washington DC region. It will amalgamate several programs under its umbrella, including programs that were previously under STEMaction Inc.—the FIRST Tech Challenge, the First Lego League Junior, and the Maryland STEM Festival.

About USRA
Founded in 1969, under the auspices of the National Academy of Sciences at the request of the U.S. Government, USRA is a nonprofit chartered to advance space-related science, technology and engineering. USRA operates scientific institutes and facilities, and conducts other major research and educational programs, under Federal funding. USRA engages the university community and employs in-house scientific leadership, innovative research and development, and project management expertise.

Contact:
Suraiya Farukhi
410-740-6224
sfarukhi@usra.edu

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SOURCE Universities Space Research Association