DETROIT, MI – Nov. 5, 2025 – United Way for Southeastern Michigan will host its second STEMPossible Symposium, an all-day learning event designed to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of young STEM leaders. On Thursday, November 13, the event will bring together over 500 fourth-grade students from schools across the region for an immersive experience at the Michigan Science Center.
The symposium, presented by Stellantis, offers a dynamic opportunity for student engagement, empowering students through technology and education. With support from Diamond Sponsor Comerica and Platinum sponsors Verizon and Ally Financial, the day emphasizes innovation, inclusion, and exposure to high-demand career pathways.
“At Stellantis, we are committed to strengthening our communities and inspiring the next generation of innovators and engineers who will shape the future of mobility,” said Eugene Nikolavsky, senior vice president, IT Global Sales and Marketing and Head of North America IT, Stellantis and Tech United board member. “In the past year Stellantis has raised more than $5 million for the United Way through employee contributions, fundraising efforts such as Run United and partnerships through our Stellantis Philanthropy effort. Our continued partnership with United Way on STEM Possible is a powerful way to invest in that future and help build a diverse, talented pipeline for Michigan and beyond.”
Students from participating schools—including Stevenson Elementary (Southfield), United Oaks Elementary (Hazel Park), Herrington Elementary (Pontiac), Ann Visger Elementary (River Rouge), Ferndale Upper Elementary, and Lincoln Elementary (Van Dyke)—will explore real-world STEM applications through hands-on activities.
“This event is a powerful example of how we can close opportunity gaps by making STEM education exciting and accessible. It allows students to envision new possibilities as they explore their futures,” said Dr. Darienne Hudson, President and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “By connecting classroom learning to interactive experiences, we are showing students the tangible impact of these skills and opening their eyes to more expansive careers.”
The event’s strategic planning and execution are driven by United Way’s Tech United CIO group, whose members volunteer their expertise and resources to close the digital divide and increase STEM education and opportunities to students through various initiatives such as STEMPossible.
“Watching a student’s face light up when they launch a rocket they built or navigate a planetarium show is unforgettable,” said Anup Popat, CEO, Systems Technology Group (STG), and Chair of Tech United. “These moments ignite a passion for learning and problem-solving that can last a lifetime. We are proud to help create these transformative experiences.”
Students will engage with the Michigan Science Center’s latest exhibit, Leonardo Da Vinci – Machines in Motion, and participate in a wide range of activities, including an Astronomy Stage Show, Planetarium Exploration, Alka-Seltzer Rockets, Build a Rocketship, and VRstronaut- a virtual reality experience.
“This exploratory field trip provides a unique opportunity for our students to see the real-world impact of what they learn in the classroom,” said Principal Lisa Bernys of United Oaks Elementary School in Hazel Park. “It builds critical thinking skills and shows them that they can be the thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers of tomorrow.”
This initiative is a key part of United Way’s broader strategy to close technology and opportunity gaps for students.
Media Contact:
Ashley Orr | United Way for Southeastern Michigan, Ashley.Orr@UnitedWaySEM.org, 248-707-0112
MEDIA NOTE: The STEMPossible event offers excellent visual and interview opportunities, including:
· Interviews: Available upon request include participating students, teachers, and school administrators; Dr. Darienne Hudson, president and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan; volunteers from the Tech United CIO group; and representatives from presenting sponsor Stellantis and other sponsors.
· Visuals: Hundreds of students engaged in hands-on engineering activities; interactions with corporate mentors; the expansive event set up at the Michigan Science Center.
About United Way for Southeastern Michigan
United Way for Southeastern Michigan, a member of the United Way Worldwide network and an independently governed 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to helping households achieve stability and ensuring that children have the resources they need to thrive. For over 100 years, United Way has been a leader in creating positive, measurable, and sustainable change in communities throughout Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties The organization collaborates with donors, agencies, corporations, and municipal partners to support essential services such as housing, food security, healthcare, and education. To give, advocate, volunteer, or learn more, visit UnitedWaySEM.org.
###