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STEM Ecosystems: A Decade of Change, Lifetime of Impact

Celebrating a Decade of STEM Ecosystems: From Vision to Global Movement

An event banner featuring 'STEM ECOSYSTEMS: DECADE OF CHANGE, LIFETIME OF IMPACT' with colorful fireworks against a dark background. Details show Washington, D.C. event dates October 20-22, 2025, with STEM Ecosystems logo and 10-year anniversary badge.

What began in 2015 with a groundbreaking National Academy of Sciences study has blossomed into a transformative force in STEM education. Today, the STEM Learning Ecosystems Community of Practice (SLECoP) stands as a testament to the power of community-driven innovation.

A Journey of Bold Vision

Our story is one of persistence and collaboration. From our early roots in Texas, where a historic partnership between the Gates Foundation and state leadership catalyzed the first STEM networks, to the expansion across Ohio, New York, North Carolina, Washington, and California—each step has been marked by unwavering commitment to reimagining STEM education.

The National Academy of Sciences affirmed what we witnessed on the ground: true transformation happens through ecosystems, not just networks. This insight led to the development of our five pillars for thriving STEM Ecosystems and the launch of our first 27 communities.

The Power of Community Practice

Perhaps our proudest achievement has been the cultivation of a genuinely collaborative learning community. Our convenings buzz with energy as ecosystem leaders naturally gravitate toward peers they can learn from. This organic, “leaderless learning” approach has become our hallmark—where the collective wisdom of the community drives innovation.

Looking Forward

A decade ago, we envisioned a future where STEM education would transcend traditional boundaries. Today, that vision is reality in communities worldwide, but our work continues. In an era of unprecedented technological advancement, our mission to create inclusive, dynamic STEM learning environments has never been more critical.

Your Stories Matter

As leaders, partners, funders, and friends of STEM Ecosystems, you’ve been instrumental in this journey. Every breakthrough, every student inspired, every barrier broken—these are the stories that fuel our movement. We want to hear about your experiences:

  • How has being part of this community transformed your work?
  • What moments of impact stand out in your local ecosystem?
  • How have you seen cross-sector partnerships drive change?

Join Us in Washington, DC – 2025

Your stories will take center stage at our milestone DC Convening in 2025, where we’ll showcase a decade of ecosystem innovation and impact. Share your journey with us—whether it’s a groundbreaking partnership, a successful program, or a transformed learner’s path—and be part of the narrative that inspires the next decade of STEM education.

Together, we’ll celebrate our shared achievements and chart the course for an even more impactful future.

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New Look, Same Mission: The STEM Ecosystems Initiative Launches Bold Brand for 2025!

STEM Ecosystems unveils a dynamic new visual identity featuring a contemporary logo and vibrant color palette that symbolizes innovation, collaboration, and growth in STEM education. The refreshed branding, launched as the organization celebrates its decade of impact, includes new community badges and partner identifiers, reflecting STEM Ecosystems’ commitment to connecting communities and fueling growth in STEM learning for the next decade and beyond.

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