Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) President and CEO Dennis D. Berkey has been appointed to Gov. Deval Patrick's Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Advisory Council. Established last October and chaired by Lt. Gov. Tim Murray, the panel will bring together Massachusetts' public and private sector stakeholders involved with STEM career and education planning and programming to boost student interest in and preparation for employment in the STEM fields. Berkey joins University of Massachusetts President Jack Wilson as one of the higher education leaders on the council.
In its first year, the council will work with families, educators, and community leaders to achieve a greater understanding of the importance of the STEM disciplines in relationship to the success of individual students. It will assess how best to increase the number of STEM-related programs in Massachusetts schools; advise on the creation and dissemination of a statewide STEM plan, with goals and objectives for the next five years; and provide recommendations on a statewide campaign that builds public support for improved curricula in the STEM disciplines.
"WPI is one of the original STEM universities in the United States," Murray said. "President Berkey's insights and knowledge will be vital to this council as we work to improve STEM education for students across the Commonwealth."
President Berkey commented, "As a mathematics educator and as president of one of the oldest and most innovative technological universities in the nation, I am acutely aware of the central role that the STEM disciplines play in our economic development. Engaging students in the wonder and fun of these disciplines at an early age enables them to develop and appreciate the analytical and innovation skills necessary for success in the careers of the future. It is an honor and a privilege to have been invited to join this distinguished council, and I look forward to serving."
To learn more about the Governor's STEM Advisory Council and for a complete listing of council members, visit: http://www.mass.gov/governor/stem.
