Smithsonian Teams Up With will.i.am to Accelerate STEAM Education 

WASHINGTON, May 9, 2024 (Newswire.com) - The Smithsonian Science Education Center has announced the addition of a distinguished name to its Ad Hoc Committee for Innovation: Los Angeles-based musician, tech entrepreneur and philanthropist, will.i.am. will.i.am joins Jeff Martin and Carol Feinberg as co-chair on the Ad Hoc Committee for Innovation board—formed in spring 2022—leading the way for the organization’s efforts related to technology and innovation.

“will.i.am’s involvement brings a dynamic blend of creativity, technological insight and a deep commitment to educational empowerment for youth,” said Smithsonian Science Education Center Director Carol O’Donnell. “Together, we are poised to make a significant impact on the future of STEAM learning.” 

will.i.am, celebrated for his achievements in music, technology and philanthropy, including seven Grammy Awards, a World Economic Forum Crystal Award, a TIME100 Impact Award and the James C. Morgan Global Humanitarian Award, is also deeply committed to advancing STEAM education. Through his i.am/Angel Foundation, more than 13,000 underserved students in metro Los Angeles have access to STEAM curriculum and robotics skill-building activities.  

“It’s an honor to join forces with the Smithsonian Science Education Center to make STEAM education curriculum more available and accessible to maximize every child’s potential,” said will.i.am. “Together we will inspire the next generation to understand, to create and to build so students can excel in school, life and work.”

In his role with the Smithsonian Science Education Center, will.i.am will advocate for and contribute to the development of innovative STEAM education that is dynamic, forward-thinking and inclusive. The collaboration aims to set a new standard for STEAM education, incorporating AI to ensure that students and educators have the tools to tackle global challenges.

This collaboration promises to energize students and educators, ensuring the future workforce is ready for the challenges of today and tomorrow. Together, the Smithsonian Science Education Center and will.i.am are going to set a new standard for STEAM education that unlocks the potential in the minds of curious young people.   

About the Smithsonian Science Education Center

The Smithsonian Science Education Center (SSEC) is transforming K–12 Education Through Science in collaboration with communities across the globe. The SSEC is nationally and internationally recognized for the quality of its programs and its impact on K–12 science education. Visit the SSEC website to learn more about the Smithsonian Science for Global Goals project and follow SSEC on Twitter and Facebook. 

Source: Smithsonian Science Education Center