Families in Northern Colorado gathered at Foothills Mall last week for a free, hands-on STEM festival celebrating Black History Month.

The “STEM: A World of Difference –  Powered by People, Science, and Engineering” event was organized by Louise Cutler Studio Community Arts Project in partnership with Colorado State University’s Walter Scott, Jr. College of Engineering. 

The event featured step-by-step science and engineering activities led by CSU students and faculty, giving children and families a chance to explore STEM concepts in an accessible setting. 

At one table, electrical engineering senior Keith Eilor taught participants how to build LED flashlights to take home.

“If this wasn’t invented, we wouldn’t have the smartphones and the monitors we use today,” he said. 

“Anyone can learn this stuff. It just takes time. It takes time and effort,” he said. “Kids need to learn this stuff, because the interest is what will push them down to learn more complex ideas.”

The festival is part of a broader monthlong series of Black History Month events organized across Fort Collins by Louise Cutler Studio Community Arts Project. Organizer Louise Cutler said the goal is to expand access and representation.

“There’s a huge gap of events that are for people of color and Black Americans, so I take the opportunity during Black History Month to organize several events for people to come out to,” Cutler said. “The whole purpose of what I do is to build community. All of my programs focus on how do we grow together as a community.” 

Melissa Burt is an associate professor and associate dean for access and success at CSU. She emphasized the importance of representation in STEM fields. 

“I also want to give back to our community to show young girls, and young students of color that this is something they can do,” she said.

While this event is over, here are some other events happening in Fort Collins this month: 

An Evening with the Minstrel
A musical and storytelling experience honoring Black composers, history, and cultural expression through live performance and reflection. In partnership with the Fort Collins Symphony, Feb 27, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at The Opera Galleria.

Art Exhibition: Stillness in the Rush
Until March 31
Foothills Mall, Fort Collins
Featuring work by Louise Cutler and Adderley Grant Lord, exploring themes of balance, reflection, and presence amid modern life.

Art Exhibition: Chavez of Efilaf Art Department
Until February 28
FoCo Café, Fort Collins
A closing artist talk with Chavez will be held Feb. 28.

> Click here to learn more about upcoming events.