Empowering Young Minds Through STEM
Investigators of Science—a STEM day-camp for middle school students hosted by Northeast Oregon Area Health Education Center (NEOAHEC) and Eastern Oregon University (EOU)—held its 2024 event at the EOU campus on November 2, 2024. Each year, students tackle a mystery using hands-on techniques in biology, chemistry, math, and computer science. Drawing 80 attendees from 6 rural and frontier counties across Oregon—Baker, Malheur, Umatilla, Union, Wallowa, and Wasco—Investigators of Science offers a unique opportunity for students to explore diverse scientific fields.
During this year’s STEM investigation, EOU faculty and volunteers guided students through exploring potential causes of a fish die-off in the fictional Gray Bay. Colby Heideman led a session on water chemistry, where students tested how nitrates, phosphates, toxic metals, or oil spills from human activity could impact fish health. Brian Myers examined the role of parasites, explaining how these organisms thrive in warmer waters and can harm fish gills. Amy Yielding introduced data analysis techniques to interpret findings, while Chris Esposito used simulations to model how different environmental factors influence aquatic ecosystems. Together, they offered students a multidisciplinary approach to understanding real-world environmental science.
A student from Pilot Rock said their favorite part of the day was biology, “I liked holding the sting ray and round worms. Of course, they were dead, but they were fun to feel and hold.” Though not every student loved every activity, they all found something about the day to love—but nothing was more praised than lunch!
Soroptimist International of La Grande has been a primary supporter since the event’s inception over two decades ago. “We believe strong minds build better futures for their families,” shared Lisa Davis, the Community Benefits Grant chair. “Watching students and seeing the possibilities open to them that they have not yet considered is very gratifying. We might not see the immediate results of the event for many years, but a seed has been planted and with nurturing of these students, they will become an active part of our community.” The impact is evident, with over 100 students applying each year. “It's amazing to see how far the reach is from this program. I've encountered young women at concerts, the farmers market, and other events who speak so enthusiastically about Investigators in Science,” Lisa added. “SILG is very proud of our longstanding and continued support of this amazing program.”
The next Investigators of Science camp will be held in Fall 2025 with a new theme to be announced. Returning campers are encouraged to join, and current 8th graders are invited to sign up for 2025 MedQuest, NEOAHEC’s health career exploration summer camp. Programs like these empower NEOAHEC and its partners to foster the next generation of Oregon’s rural healthcare workforce.
The success of Investigators of Science is made possible through collaboration with community partners. Eastern Oregon University faculty and students donated their time and expertise, with special contributions coming from activity leaders as well as Bri Holeman, Deanna Timmerman, President Kelly Ryan, and the university’s Biology and Chemistry Clubs.
The Pendleton branch of American Association of University Women (AAUW) has covered registration fees for students from Sunridge, Pilot Rock, and Athena/Weston schools for the last two years, and Central Middle School provided scholarships for students from Milton-Freewater.
The Richland branch of the American Chemical Society donated funding for the event and brings national recognition through awards. Greater Oregon STEM (GO-STEM) donated swag to the students, including stickers, pencils, wrist bands, and drawstring bags. The OHSU School of Nursing La Grande Campus provided volunteers to help run the activities. The La Grande branch of Soroptimist International (SIGL) has annually funded food and T-shirt expenses for the students and volunteers. And, Meg Hawks with Single Speed Printing designed this year’s logo that was used on the shirts and promotional materials.
Each of these partners plays a vital role in making Investigators of Science the high-quality, award-winning program it is today.