Northeastern College of Engineering Renames STEM Education Center in Honor of SENTRY Director
At the Northeastern College of Engineering 2024 faculty and staff awards event, Dean Gregory D. Abowd announced the renaming of the Center for STEM Education to the Michael B. Silevitch and Claire J. Duggan Center for STEM Education. This honor commemorates the extensive contributions of Michael Silevitch, SENTRY Director, and Claire Duggan, Center for STEM Education Director, who collectively served the academic community for nearly ten decades.
The Michael B. Silevitch and Claire J. Duggan Center for STEM Education is dedicated to enhancing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education at all levels, from K-20. It aims to foster a supportive community of educators, researchers, and students. The center is focused on building community, advancing STEM education, and inspiring future leaders by designing and supporting academic and extracurricular programs in STEM fields.
Claire spoke about her vision for the center, sharing, “The more young people we can reach, and the more moments of discovery we can create, the greater the chances that a future STEM professional will find his or her place in the world.”
Already, the Michael B. Silevitch and Claire J. Duggan Center for STEM Education at Northeastern University has left a significant impact on students and educators alike through its diverse programs. The Young Scholars Program has provided invaluable hands-on laboratory experience, fostering a passion for STEM research beyond the classroom. Similarly, the Research Experience for Undergraduates program has empowered students with practical skills and knowledge and the Northeastern University Summer STEM Program has successfully encouraged 6th to 8th-grade students to pursue STEM careers and fostered essential skills such as teamwork and leadership.
These programs reflect the center’s commitment to advancing STEM education and empowering the next generation of scientists and engineers, a dedication shared by the center’s newly honored namesakes, Michael and Claire.