Kent State’s Brain Health Research Institute recently welcomed 94 fourth-grade students from the I PROMISE School in Akron, Ohio, for a day of activities aimed at sparking their interest in science and technology.
These young “Brainiacs” were immersed in a variety of activities to learn about career opportunities that are available in the STEM fields – science, technology, engineering and math – and to learn about the brain and its functions.
Events included numerous activity stations to get students thinking, moving and learning about all facets of the brain and brain health, from the basic senses to which parts of the brain control different functions and emotions.
The I PROMISE School is part of Akron Public Schools and is supported by the LeBron James Family Foundation, which is dedicated to students and families in need of additional support.
Another important aspect of the day was helping children envision themselves as college students one day. Kent State has an ongoing partnership with the LeBron James Family Foundation to support its I PROMISE scholars.
In 2020, the university provided the opportunity for a college education to all eligible students from the I PROMISE Program by guaranteeing four years of tuition and one year of room and meal plan at Kent State through its I PROMISE Scholars program. This opportunity is an extension of Kent State's collaboration with the foundation, in which I PROMISE students attend summer enrichment college preparation programs at the university.