FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Yonkers, NY – December 2024 – Sister to Sister International (STSI), in collaboration with Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s DNA Learning Center hosted an enlightening field trip on Saturday, December 7th, 2024 at Regeneron. This event provided middle and high school students a unique opportunity to delve into the world of enzymes and see firsthand how they impact our daily lives and the food industry.
Students traveled to the Regeneron DNA Learning Center in Sleepy Hollow, NY to participate in a series of hands-on experiments including, a) making cheese from milk using emporase enzyme (also called rennet); b) observing the bubbling reaction of chicken livers exposed to the catalase enzyme; and c) converting applesauce into apple juice with the enzyme pectinase. These experiments not only demonstrated enzyme functionality but also highlighted the importance of enzymes in biotechnology and food production.
Dr. Chiatogu Onyewu, a board member of STSI and Senior Director of Genetic Medicines Program Management and Operations at Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., connected the STEAM Academy with the DNA Learning Center and played a key role in facilitating activities during our visit. Her expertise and engagement significantly enhanced the students' learning experience.
Student Testimonials Highlight Impact
One participating student shared, “Seeing the enzymes in action was so cool! It made me realize how amazing science can be and how it's used in real life, not just in textbooks.”
Another student remarked, “This trip opened my eyes to a potential career in biotechnology. It’s fascinating to see how much impact these tiny molecules have in medicine and industry.”
Continued Commitment to STEAM Education
This science based effort is part of Sister to Sister International’s ongoing commitment to provide enriching experiences that inspire young girls of color to explore and excel in S.T.E.A.M fields. By partnering with leading scientific institutions like the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s DNA Learning Center, STSI ensures that students receive real-world, practical experiences that complement their academic learning.
As we look to the future, STSI is dedicated to continuing its mission of offering robust programming and opportunities around STEAM exploration. This includes field trips and STEAM Academy activities that focus on building skills, uncovering career paths, and developing leadership.
For more information about Sister to Sister International and upcoming programs, please visit our website at www.s2si.org or contact Lydia Smith, STEAM Consultant and Program Coordinator, at lydiasmith.lks@gmail.comor 636-683-0285.
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