A Day of Discovery: STEAMCON Brings Science and Art to Life – March 2, 2024

Excitement is in the air as Operation Smile announces the first-ever “World of Medicine STEAMCON” on Saturday, March 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Operation Smile’s Global Headquarters. This inaugural event is a celebration for all ages that brings the worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) to life. STEAMCON invites schools, community organizations, families, and businesses to dive into STEAM through: 

• Escape Room Challenge: Take on the World of Medicine escape room challenge. Work together to discover clues and solve puzzles with the united goal of helping Operation Smile patients. 

• Interactive Learning Center (ILC): Explore the fusion of technology and storytelling in Operation Smile’s Anthony L. & Hideko S. Burgess Interactive Learning Center

• Career Exploration: Learn about a future in STEAM with first-hand information and activities from partner organizations and guest speakers.  

The day promises a wealth of interactive experiences, bringing together over 40 community partners from across Hampton Roads. From an escape room and hands-on activities, to live demonstrations and a special guest speaker – attendees will have the opportunity to engage with local innovators, artists, educators, vendors, and organizations including Code Ninjas Virginia Beach, Virginia Spaceport Authority, and the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, among many others. 

“STEAMCON will serve as a cultural and community connector fostering innovation, creativity, and collaboration,” says Philip Odango, Senior Director of Community Engagement, Events, & Partnerships at Operation Smile. “Aligned with service-learning through empathy, and through the support of our local partners, our mission is to empower the next generation of compassionate leaders and changemakers in Hampton Roads.”

Empowering Future STEAM Leaders

STEAMCON focuses on the educational and interactive exploration of STEAM fields, and also aligns with Operation Smile’s mission of service, education and training. Kathy Magee, President and CEO of Operation Smile, emphasizes the dedication to empowering careers in STEAM, and specifically – women in STEAM: “With our Women in Medicine initiative, we’ve spotlighted the critical role of women in STEAM worldwide, and I am deeply passionate about inspiring the next generation to pursue these paths. At the heart of STEAMCON is the mission to inspire and empower future leaders.”

Event Details  

World of Medicine STEAMCON: Saturday, March 2, 2024. Doors open at 10 a.m. at the Operation Smile Global Headquarters, located at 3641 Faculty Blvd. in Virginia Beach. Free and open to the public. While walk-ins are welcome, advance registration is encouraged. To reserve your space, visit https://tinyurl.com/mwk3pnvd. 

Additional hands-on activities include service learning through 3D printing, sewing a “Smile Bag,” and a sutures seminar. For an up-to-date schedule and full list of partners and programming follow Operation Smile’s Interactive Learning Center (ILC) on instagram @ILCJourney.

Food and beverage will be available for purchase from local culinary favorites, including Bella’s Cakes, Bonchon, Frida’s Tacos, Sundae Scoop, and catering partner, Donato’s Pizza. 

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About Operation Smile 

Operation Smile is a global nonprofit bridging the gap in access to essential surgeries and healthcare, starting with cleft surgery and comprehensive care. We provide medical expertise, training, research and care through our dedicated staff and medical and student volunteers around the world, working alongside local governments, nonprofits, and health systems, and supported by our generous donors and corporate partners. 

For more information about Operation Smile, please visit: https://www.operationsmile.org