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| 4-H students, Ag Center officials, and supporters |
Baton
Rouge, La - The Southern University Ag Center had a successful 4-H National
Youth Science Day on October 10. The youth excited about their hard work and
accomplishment at the EcoBot challenge event. Community members were on
hand to lend moral support to the future scientists, including East Baton Rouge
Mayor Melvin “Kip” Holden, who took time out of his busy schedule to support
our youth.
“I was
once a 4-Her, and this area is dear to me.” said Holden. He encouraged
the students to make the best use of their academic exposure. “Take the
opportunities given to you, keep the faith, accept the challenges and stay the
course.” He also mentioned that we have oil spills in Louisiana quite a bit.
The
theme for 4-H National Youth Science Day Program at the SU Ag Center was “Youth
Becoming Positive Leaders and Protecting their Environments.” This theme
was appropriate for the EcoBot activity, in which participants from the
Southern University Lab School 6th grade class undertook the task of building a
robot to clean up a simulated oil spill.
Captain
Rodney Walker, SCAT Commander of the Anti-Crime Unit, East Baton Rouge
Sheriff’s Office addressed the youth and shared several key points. Walker
encouraged the youth by informing them that, “you can do whatever you desire to
do with positive influences and a good education.”
Major
Michael Crawford, Chief of Operations/Homeland Security, East Baton Rouge
Parish Sheriff’s Office said, "We are always impressed about what the
young people in our community are doing. And often times we don't see the level
of energy needed in regard to school and school projects. However, after
visiting the SU Ag Center and seeing the 6th graders’ level of interest and
enthusiasm, it far surpassed my expectations. What a refreshing experience this
was for all who took part.”
Dr.
Anthony Stewart, Research Scientist, SUBR, stated that “the youth are well on
their way to becoming great scientists. This EcoBot display is just the
beginning.”
Tiffany
Franklin, extension associate and program leader said, “The youth have been a
joy to work with over the past couple of months. We have worked
diligently and studied hard because this was new to all of us. However, I
am excited about their first EcoBot display and the level of knowledge
gained. From this activity, some of the youth are interested in learning
more about engineering and robotics. I am so proud of them and they work
they have done. This is evidence that youth are capable if we, as
Extension professionals, continue to work with them and bring out their
creative energy.”
For
further details, contact Tiffany W. Franklin at 225)771-2775 or via email at tiffany_franklin@suagcenter.com
###
Contact:
Bridget Udoh
(225) 771-5714
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