Ball State University launched its new STEM Education Center. This center will be a hub for advancing STEM teaching and learning across the state. The mission is to provide access to high-quality instruction that will grow the pipeline of future STEM educators.
The center is housed in Ball State’s College of Sciences and Humanities and was developed through collaboration between Richard Petts, associate dean, Andrew Gatza, the center’s director, and Ball State’s Teachers College.
“This center brings together the people, partnerships, and research that already exist across Ball State — and gives us a stronger structure to expand what works: hands-on learning experiences for young students, support for teachers and schools, and a clear pathway that helps more Ball State students see themselves as future STEM educators,” Gatza said.
The core goals of the center are increasing the number of future STEM educators, collaborations with K-12 schools and community partners, and advancing STEM education scholarship that enhances teaching practice and benefits classrooms across Indiana.
“Ball State has long been committed to preparing educators and building partnerships that strengthen communities,” said Becca Rice, vice president for governmental relations and industry engagement. “As Indiana continues to focus on addressing the STEM teacher shortage, the STEM Education Center positions Ball State to help lead—with stronger talent pipelines, deeper partnerships with schools, and research-informed approaches that translate into real classroom impact. This is the kind of work that supports students, employers, and local economies across our state.”
For more information or partnership inquiries, community members, educators, and students may contact Andrew Gatza at amgatza@bsu.edu.
Contact Staff Writer Malik Simon at 317-762-7847.
