National Chemistry Week 2023: The Healing Power of Chemistry

The ACS Pittsburgh Local Section celebrated National Chemistry Week by partnering with the Carnegie Science Center for a variety of events hosted throughout this very special week!

“Gene-age Dream” STEM Adventure Scholars Program: On October 16, 18, and 19, the ACS Pittsburgh Local Section helped to sponsor the “Gene-age Dream STEM Adventure” which is the Carnegie Science Center’s “school field trip enhancement program.” Teachers from local schools will brought groups of their students to participate in a full laboratory experience that they may not get in their schools. Fourteen volunteers attended the sessions throughout the week to serve as lab assistants alongside the Carnegie Science Center professionals. Teachers from four districts brought approximately 158 high school students to participate in this event.

“SciTech Days”: Health and Medicine demonstrations and Career Panel at the Carnegie Science Center. A traditional exposition-style event, schools from the Pittsburgh region and surrounding communities brought students to experience hands-on demonstrations and activities on Friday, October 20th. A total of 186 students from 7 individual schools came on-site specifically for this program in addition to 700 individual visitors who were able to engage the exhibitors present. The Pittsburgh Local Section showcased the chemistry of bandages at their demonstration table which was staffed throughout the day by ten volunteers.

We extend a heart-felt thank you to the numerous volunteers who contributed to make this event a success, particularly all exhibitors, panelists, and lab assistants. Similarly, we recognize the Carnegie Science Center, for their major role in organizing and coordinating these NCW activities. The ACS Pittsburgh Local Section also wishes to acknowledge and thank our financial contribution partners, without whom our National Chemistry Week activities could not be possible:

The Society for Analytical Chemists of Pittsburgh
The Spectroscopy Society of Pittsburgh
Their support went directly to cover the costs of both student admission and laboratory supplies.