Angels Camp, CA…On Nov. 18, 2021 students and teachers from Calaveras and Amador County schools mingled with scientists at the Dinner With a Scientist student event put on by the Calaveras County Office of Education (CCOE). This student event marks the first in-person event since March of 2020. Success can be measured in numbers, there were over 175 attendees at the event.

This year’s event was held at the Calaveras County Fairgrounds in an outdoor, covered building. Multiple measures were taken to ensure the safety of all who attended the event. Masks were required when not eating or drinking. Students and teachers remained in cohorts throughout the event and ample space was provided.

Dinner With a Scientist brings together STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) professionals and students in a casual, dinner conversation. Scientists get 30 minutes with each student group of up to 10 students. Students are able to inquire about the scientist’s career, demonstrations provided and college pathways. The intent of this event is to inspire young minds in scientific realms and give them an opportunity to explore new ideas.

The keynote speaker for the evening was Calaveras’ very own Public Health Officer, Dr. René Ramirez. In his speech, he encouraged students to “be curious and try new things.” He explained, “that every time anyone tries something new, that is science.” Students stayed engaged and interested while Dr. Ramirez shared his personal story and experiences that led him into the medical field.

Superintendent of Schools Scott Nanik expressed, “it was so great to see the students’ excitement for science.” “We had such great attendance at this event, it was incredible to see all the students in person again,” said Student Event Coordinator Debbie Strand.

Sponsors for the event included Calaveras Community Foundation, Bank of Stockton, Copper Valley Development, and Middleton’s. Angels-Murphy Rotary donated $1,000 to the event as well as volunteers to help with dinner service. Murphy’s Historic Hotel catered the event and donated their time for the cause. A local food vendor generously donated the food and the Calaveras County Fairgrounds provided the facility at a deeply discounted rate.

A huge Thank You goes out to all the STEM professionals who donated their time, the volunteers, and the teachers who dedicated their evening to attend the event. For more information on CCOE student events, visit www.ccoe.k12.ca.us/studentevents/

###