STEM NOLA to Host “The Power of Chemistry” STEM Saturday, Sponsored by Chevron on November 14, 2026
Free, hands-on STEM experience will invite children ages 0–4 and students in grades K–12 to explore chemistry by building and testing their own chemical battery clock.
NEW ORLEANS, LA — STEM NOLA and Chevron are excited to host STEM Saturday: The Power of Chemistry Day on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM at the Gernon Brown Recreation Center. This free, hands-on STEM experience invites K-12 students to explore the science of chemistry through interactive activities, including the opportunity to build and test their own chemical battery clock.
As part of STEM NOLA’s signature STEM Saturday series, The Power of Chemistry transforms scientific concepts into an engaging, hands-on learning experience. Students will explore how chemical reactions create energy and discover how chemistry connects to the technology and innovations they encounter every day. Through experimentation, problem-solving, and hands-on discovery, participants will have the opportunity to apply scientific principles while developing a deeper appreciation for the role chemistry plays in the world around them.
“When students have the opportunity to build something with their own hands, science becomes more than something they read about in a textbook,” said Dr. Calvin Mackie, founder and CEO of STEM NOLA. “Through experiences like The Power of Chemistry, we want young people to experiment, ask questions, and discover how the principles of chemistry can be applied to real-world challenges. Our goal is to make STEM accessible and exciting while helping students see themselves as the scientists, engineers, and innovators of tomorrow.”
Event Highlights:
- Build and Test a Chemical Battery Clock: Students will construct their own chemical battery clock and explore how chemical reactions can generate the energy needed to power everyday technology.
- Explore the Power of Chemistry: Participants will engage with hands-on STEM activities that introduce scientific concepts through experimentation, discovery, and problem-solving.
- STEM for the Littlest Learners: Through a partnership with Training Grounds, parents with children ages 0–4 can participate in hands-on STEM play and interactive activities designed specifically for young children.
A Thank You to Our Sponsors and Partners
STEM NOLA extends our appreciation to the organizations helping make this experience possible, including Chevron, Entergy, NORD Commission, the City of New Orleans, the New Orleans City Council and our friends at the TD Jakes Foundation and Training Grounds.
The support from these organizations helps create meaningful opportunities for students to engage with STEM, discover new interests, and see themselves as the future leaders.
Registration:
Space is limited! Parents and guardians are encouraged to register their students early at https://registration.stemnola.com/ to secure their spot.
Volunteers Needed:
College students and STEM professionals are invited to volunteer and help inspire the next generation of innovators. Undergraduate college student volunteers receive a $50 stipend! To sign up as a volunteer, please visit https://stemnola.galaxydigital.com/need/.
Event Details:
- Event: STEM Saturday: The Power of Chemistry
- Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026
- Time: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
- Location: Gernon Brown Recreation Center | 1001 Harrison Ave, New Orleans, LA 70124
- Cost: Free for K-12 students
About STEM NOLA | STEM Global Action:
Founded by Dr. Calvin Mackie, STEM NOLA is dedicated to exposing, engaging, and inspiring students in grades K-12 to the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through hands-on programs and immersive learning experiences, STEM NOLA provides opportunities for students to build the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue careers in STEM fields. STEM Global Action, the nationwide expansion of STEM NOLA, aims to bring these experiences to communities across the U.S. and help develop a diverse and skilled workforce for the future.
Media Contact:
Mia Augillard
Director of Communications
STEM NOLA | STEM Global Action
maugillard@stemnola.com