March 11, 2026
Families and community members of all ages are invited to explore science, technology, engineering and math during Community Stem Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, at Grand Rapids Community College.
Community STEM Day is a free, hands-on event designed to spark curiosity and inspire learners through interactive activities led by GRCC faculty, students and staff. Participants can explore anatomy, biology, chemistry, physics, math, health sciences, psychology and more through engaging, drop-in experiences offered throughout the day.
“STEM careers continue to grow faster than many other fields, and early exposure is critical,” said Leigh Kleinert, professor of biology at GRCC. “Community STEM Day gives students and families the chance to experience science in a fun, welcoming environment and see firsthand that STEM is accessible, engaging and for everyone.
More than 25 interactive activities will take place simultaneously across GRCC’s Calkins Science Center and surrounding spaces. Highlights include dissecting sheep hearts, extracting DNA from strawberries, building balloon-powered cars and artistic robots, exploring fossils and minerals, creating slime, examining cells under microscopes, learning hands-only CPR, and participating in anatomy and physiology games.
“Hands-on experiences are powerful,” said Tim Periard, associate professor of biology. “When participants can touch, build, test and ask questions, science comes alive. Our goal is to make learning exciting and to help young people see themselves as future scientists, engineers, health professionals or problem solvers.”
Additional activities include owl pellet dissections, worm composting, greenhouse plant projects, musical instrument building, music games, nursing simulations, child development demonstrations, wellness activities and family-friendly crafts and snacks. Many activities are designed for learners of all ages, from preschool through adults.
All activities are free and open to the public and available on a continuous, drop-in basis from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Free parking will be available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Parking Ramp B at the corner of Bostwick Avenue and Lyon Street. Volunteers will be on hand to provide directions and maps of the activities.
For more information about Community STEM Day and a full list of activities, please visit the website at grcc.edu/STEMday.