PRESS RELEASE: May 23, 2025
Jessica Gilpin, PhD
East Alabama STEM Ecosystem
jag0038@auburn.edu
Auburn, AL – The East Alabama STEM Ecosystem has been selected to join the Global STEM Ecosystems Initiative, a worldwide movement that brings together leaders from education, business, government, and community organizations to develop high-quality STEM learning opportunities. Through strategic partnerships, the East Alabama STEM Ecosystem will create powerful STEM learning experiences that happen everywhere – in classrooms, afterschool programs, museums, businesses, and community spaces.
"This learning ecosystem represents a transformative opportunity for our community. By joining the Global STEM Ecosystems Initiative, we are committed to fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration that extends beyond traditional classrooms. Our goal is to create dynamic STEM learning experiences that empower individuals of all ages to explore, engage, and excel in STEM fields. Through strategic partnerships and community involvement, we can build a resilient, STEM-ready workforce that drives economic growth and enhances the quality of life in East Alabama."
About East Alabama STEM Ecosystem
The East Alabama STEM Ecosystem is dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and dynamic STEM-learning network that fosters a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and community development.
Anchored by the Auburn University I-STEM Connectory, the East Alabama STEM Ecosystem strives to support lifelong learning and civic engagement through collaborations with Auburn University departments and organizations, community industry partners, and local school districts. Serving the East Alabama community in Workforce Region 5 (Bullock, Chambers, Lee, Macon, Russell, Tallapoosa counties) the Ecosystem has already started their work by bringing together partners to highlight the many wonders of STEM in our region including community events and opportunities: Science and Engineering Fairs, Invention Conventions, Robotics, STEM Expos and Internship/Externship Opportunities with Industry.
“We are thrilled to welcome the East Alabama STEM Ecosystem into our global initiative,” said Jenny Frank, Director of the STEM Learning Ecosystems Community of Practice. “Their commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration across East Alabama aligns perfectly with our mission. By leveraging Auburn University’s resources and partnering with local industries and school districts, this ecosystem is poised to create dynamic STEM learning experiences that will empower individuals of all ages. Their focus on building a resilient, STEM-ready workforce while promoting lifelong learning and civic engagement will undoubtedly contribute to the economic growth and quality of life in the region. We look forward to the unique perspectives and innovative approaches the East Alabama STEM Ecosystem will bring to our global community.”
For more information about the East Alabama STEM Ecosystem:
Jessica Gilpin, PhD
Asst. Director, Sciences and Mathematics Outreach at Auburn University
Jag0038@auburn.edu; https://aub.ie/ease
About the Global STEM Ecosystems Initiative powered by TIES
The Global STEM Ecosystems Initiative unites diverse community partners—schools, businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies—to create thriving STEM learning environments and develop a competitive workforce. With over 120 ecosystems across 43 states and 8 countries, the Initiative reaches approximately 42 million students worldwide. As the backbone organization, TIES facilitates collaboration and innovation through regular exchanges, professional development, and an annual convening. The Initiative’s effectiveness has been recognized by the U.S. Office of Science and Technology Policy and cited in the $52 billion CHIPS and Science Act as a proven strategy for creating equitable access to STEM education and career opportunities.
Global STEM Ecosystems Initiative:
www.stemecosystems.org
Jenny Frank, Director
jennyfrank@tiesteach.org
