Session: Successful Student Chapters:

The ACS Student Chapter at Centenary College of Louisiana consists of many students with different focuses who all share a passion for the field of chemistry. Our organization prioritizes outreach and STEM education to both the campus and community, and due to the pandemic, we have been challenged to create new ways to uphold our missions during COVID-19. To continue our goals, we have merged both online and socially-distanced, in-person events to create safe and exciting events. During National Chemistry Week, we implemented a virtual chemistry bingo night, which allowed us to play a fun game with no in-person contact. While at first it was difficult to handle the logistics of a Zoom-based game, we were able to adapt and deliver a fun and educational experience for the student body. We continued our tradition of “Guess the Moles of Candy” where participants learn how to convert a numerical guess into moles for a chance to win a prize. This event also merged online and in-person components to maximize both safety and enjoyment. The Periodic Table of Cupcakes, while different this year, was present as well and remains an event for which we are known across campus. Finally, we were able to create events that reiterated the ACS’s hands-on theme of Sticky Chemistry while following distancing and sanitation rules. By creating slime kits, we were able to demonstrate sticky chemistry for students without having to touch common tools and materials. Our adherence to safety guidelines not only allowed us to continue our traditions, but allowed us to set an example for other student groups hoping to host events during this time. In the spring, we plan to use new, exciting partnerships to increase our STEM outreach with local schools. We have recently collaborated with STARBASE, a partnership that will increase our visibility to both local schools and the Barksdale Air Force Base. We hope to incorporate themes such as computational chemistry, programming and coding, and Green Chemistry through this outreach event. While the nature of National Chemistry Week and our future outreach have been affected by the pandemic, we are proud to have pioneered safe and enjoyable ways to continue educating and entertaining Centenary and its community.

Ashley Strawder

Appearances