Voinovich School’s efforts enrich local STEM learning opportunities, new online resources available

Students throughout the region are getting an early start on STEM education exposure thanks to initiatives overseen by Ohio University’s Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Service. 

Co-led by Jen Bowman, the school’s director of environmental programs, in conjunction with the Southeast Ohio Hub of the Ohio STEM Learning Network, the efforts run the gamut of promoting science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.

“The goal of the Southeast Ohio OSLN Regional Hub’s work is to expand equitable access to high-quality STEM education by supporting schools at every level of implementation—from initial awareness to full schoolwide integration,” Bowman said.

“The hub aims to grow interest in STEM, deepen related practices, and support model schools through responsive services, professional development and strategic partnerships with educators, communities and industry. Ultimately, the work is designed to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders and meet the evolving needs of Ohio’s students and workforce,” Bowman said.

OHIO’s efforts are co-led by Stephanie Miller, associate professor of instruction in biological sciences and STEMstart co-director, and Jennifer Hileman, assistant professor of instruction in environmental studies.

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A couple of recent examples of the Voinovich School’s outreach on its many STEM initiatives include a Science Network Professional Development event held at the Gallia County Educational Service Center and the OSLN #STEMmovesOhio Design Challenge held in September.

The latter event was co-hosted by the Appalachian Ohio Manufacturers’ Coalition.

“We’re proud to partner with Ohio University and the Ohio STEM Learning Network for the 2025 OSLN Design Challenge to help connect educators with the industries shaping our region,” Coalition Associate Director Cecily Fyffe said.

“By bringing industry professionals together with teachers during the Southeast Regional Kickoff at AOMC, we’re helping bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. The OSLN Design Challenge is a great way to encourage students to think creatively and develop solutions to real-world scenarios; skills that are essential for success in today’s workforce,” she added. “This collaboration ensures students are exposed to the technologies, problem-solving, and career paths that drive opportunity and growth across southeast Ohio.”

The Design Challenge event also attracted regional media coverage by WTAP.

Online STEM resources

A new online resource for educators posted on the Voinovich School website offers local educators access to several other items to assist local schools with STEM education offerings. The site includes links with contact information, event sign-ups and the many resources available through OHIO’s public-private STEM partnership.

In addition, reservations for no-cost Portable Innovation Labs (PILs) can be submitted through the PAST Foundation website.

The Ohio STEM Learning Network operates as a partnership overseen by the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce and Battelle, a global research and development organization headquartered in Columbus.