Jefferson Concludes Future Women in STEAM Summer Academy with Awards Ceremony

Jefferson Community College (JCC) concluded its Future Women in STEAM Summer Academy on Thursday, July 30, 2026, with an awards ceremony recognizing participants for their creativity, curiosity, teamwork, and accomplishments. 

The free, four-day academy introduced young women entering grades 8–10 to careers and educational pathways in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics (STEAM). Designed to inspire the next generation of innovators, the Future Women in STEAM Summer Academy exposed students to a wide range of educational and career opportunities while fostering problem-solving, creativity, innovation, and collaboration through engaging, hands-on experiences. The program was offered at no cost to participants and included breakfast each day.

Throughout the week, participants explored STEAM concepts through interactive activities, including 3D design, paper circuits, aluminum embossing, recycling aluminum cans into salts, and landscape architecture. Students also connected with guest speakers who shared their educational journeys and career experiences in STEAM fields.

Each Future Women in STEAM Summer Academy participant received a Collegiate Science & Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) Rising Star Award, which recognizes curiosity, thoughtful questioning, and a passion for learning. In addition, the following students received special recognition for outstanding achievements:

• Naima Bello, of Clayton, entering 10th grade, received the Aubertine & Currier Engineering Excellence STEAM Award, which recognizes creativity in problem-solving, innovative use of technology, and the ability to think beyond existing solutions.
• Amelia Crast, of Lacona, entering 9th grade, received the Trailblazer STEAM Award, which honors leadership, a commitment to learning, and the ability to inspire and support others in their educational journey.
• Ella Dalpe, of Sackets Harbor, entering 10th grade, received the Chemistry Sustainability Award, which recognizes excellence in scientific inquiry, experimentation, and the pursuit of knowledge through exploration.
• Paige Thompson, of Copenhagen, entering 8th grade, received the STEAM Innovator Award, which celebrates the essential role of art in STEAM by recognizing imagination, creative design, and the ability to express ideas in unique and meaningful ways.

"The Future Women in STEAM Summer Academy is about helping young women see what's possible," said Daniel J. Dupee, II, President. "By giving students the opportunity to explore STEAM through hands-on learning and mentorship, we're helping them build confidence, discover new interests, and envision themselves pursuing careers in fields where their ideas and talents can make a lasting impact."

"This academy gave students the opportunity to experiment, ask questions, and discover that they belong in STEAM careers," said Donna M. Stevenson, Associate Vice President of STEM, Health Professions, and Business at Jefferson. “We hope they leave knowing they have the ability to become the next generation of engineers, scientists, designers, and innovators."

Jefferson’s Future Women in STEAM Summer Academy is sponsored by Aubertine & Currier Architects, Engineers, and Land Surveyors.