The College of Science embraces outreach as a cornerstone of its mission to advance science literacy, build community connections and address pressing challenges that impact people’s lives. Through community engagement, we develop the next generation of leaders and problem-solvers while promoting science as a vital tool for improving our world.
As a land grant university, Oregon State University was founded on the groundbreaking idea that higher education and scientific research should be accessible to all, not just the privileged few. This mission drives our outreach efforts, ensuring that education and research directly benefits all communities across the state.
Community engagement is crucial for scientists, as it deepens their understanding of the real-world impacts of their work. By collaborating with diverse communities, scientists ensure their research serves those communities effectively. This approach fosters accountability, respect and mutual benefits.
Whether fostering curiosity in local classrooms, providing resources for underserved communities or translating cutting-edge discoveries for the general public, our outreach bridges the gap between science and society, elevating both. Here are some examples from across our departments:
In Integrative Biology, faculty and students participated in events such as Science Nights at local schools, Discovery Days, and sea-themed summer camps, with activities ranging from avian behavior trials to DNA sequencing workshops in Nepal. The department also contributed to public presentations and fundraisers for undergraduate research. To read a longer recap, visit the department website.
The Mathematics department hosted significant events like the Lonseth Lecture and Math For All Conference, while also providing educational enrichment through math circles and problem-solving sessions. Faculty gave lectures internationally and led outreach programs in local schools, aiming to make math accessible to all. To learn more about upcoming mathematics outreach events, visit their website.
Biochemistry and Biophysics highlighted women leaders in STEM, hosted symposia and webinars, and engaged the public through biophysics demonstrations. The department's outreach extended to local schools, community events, and artistic projects that made science more approachable. To read a longer recap, visit the department website.
In Physics, outreach efforts included attending elementary school science nights and giving tours to high school students. Educators can visit the physics website to schedule a classroom visit from an OSU physicist.
The Chemistry department’s outreach initiatives aim to broaden access to STEM education and inspire a diverse range of students to explore science. Through a variety of programs, the department offers hands-on experiences, community events, and immersive camps that connect underrepresented and local students with real-world science opportunities. Check out the department outreach page to learn more about their efforts.
The Microbiology department organized creative and educational events such as agar art, career panels, and science nights, while also hosting a microbiology camp for high school students to explore STEM careers.
The Department of Statistics held outreach activities focused on recruitment and research growth including a joint research forum with Shanghai University of International Business and Economics. The department also held two conferences in Corvallis during the 2024 summer.
In the Dean’s Office, the Student Success Center organized Discovery Days where OSU welcomed more than 1,000 elementary students to experience the thrills of science outside the classroom. Discovery Days, a biannual outreach event sponsored by the College of Science, brimmed with activities for kids to enjoy while they met graduate and undergraduate students eager to share their enthusiasm for the inspiring field. In the fall, the two-day event was possible by the work of 155 volunteers who hosted 19 activities and engaged with 1333 visiting students from our community.
The Dean’s Office also did recruitment outreach, visiting community colleges and middle and high schools to promote STEM programs and career paths – particularly in the College of Science – engaging over 300 students in total.
These collective efforts showcase the College’s commitment to science education, community engagement and inspiring future generations in STEM.
