Charleston, WV – The National Youth Science Foundation (NYSF) has selected accomplished science educator Dennis Schatz as their 2022 National Youth Science Camp (NYSCamp) Alumnus of the Year. Schatz attended NYSCamp as one of the 1965 delegates from Colorado. The be nominated as an alumnus of the year, NYSCamp alumni should be distinguished in their chosen STEAM field, have made significant contributions to their community, demonstrated integrity, and maintain a relationship with NYSF in support of their mission to inspire lifelong learning and ethical leadership in STEAM fields.
Since attending NYSCamp in Pocahontas County, Schatz received degrees in physics and astronomy from the University of Wisconsin, Madison, astrophysics from the University of California, Berkeley, and science education from the University of Washington, Seattle. He then worked much of his career at the Pacific Science Center, eventually serving as the Senior Vice Present for Strategic Programs. He also served as the President of the National Science Teaching Association from 2019-2020. He is now a Senior Fellow at the Institute for Learning Innovation. He is also the author of over 20 science books for children, including When the Sun Goes Dark, Solar Science, and the Fossil Detective series.
Schatz will return to West Virginia to receive this award, and while back in the state, will be making several presentations to WV STEAM students, teachers, and other informal educators. Schatz will speak with students from the “Go Your Own” pathway, a program helping to develop the next generation of WV teachers in Wayne and Cabell Counties. He will then give a public lecture about inspiring lifelong learning at the University of Charleston. Finally, Schatz will work with STEAM educators at the annual conference of the West Virginia Science Teachers Association in Tucker County. Schatz credits his experience at the National Youth Science Camp as an important part of the decision to dedicate his life to studying and improving science education.
For inquiries, photos, and interviews, please contact Delaney Rose “DR” Ahrens, Director of External Relations and Development, at communications@nysf.com. Contributions can also be made directly via donate.nysf.com