DSU Verizon STEM Achievers program celebrates a decade of growth
Delaware State University marked a milestone this summer as the Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers program celebrated its tenth year, welcoming its largest cohort yet with 180 middle school students from across the state.
The program, which began in 2016 with just 40 students, was created to provide access to technology and mentoring for youth in under-resourced communities. Since then, it has grown by 350 percent, offering hands-on experiences in emerging technologies such as augmented and virtual reality, 3D printing, drones, robotics and entrepreneurship.
“Providing access to technology and real-world skills is essential for 21st-century learning,” said Vaughn Hopkins, director of the Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers program at Delaware State University. “We are incredibly proud to celebrate our tenth year by hosting our largest class to date.”
The program’s influence extends well beyond the summer. Many students from the original 2016 and 2017 cohorts have gone on to attend Delaware State University and other institutions, majoring in business, aviation and various STEM fields. Some have even returned as student mentors, guiding new participants and strengthening their own leadership and technical skills in the process.
This year’s program was supported by a dedicated team of three DSU administrative staff members, eight middle school teachers and thirteen student mentors, ensuring that every participant received personalized guidance and encouragement.
The program concluded with a “Shark Tank” style competition on July 25, where students pitched creative solutions to address homelessness in Delaware. Projects were presented before a panel of judges, families and community partners.
The winning team developed an app designed to help unhoused individuals apply for jobs without requiring a permanent address. The project reflected both empathy and innovation while showcasing how technology can be used to solve real-world problems.
Verizon Innovative Learning STEM Achievers continues to engage students through fall and spring open houses that offer hands-on activities and mentorship opportunities, sparking curiosity and encouraging future participation.
“Each year, more students gain exposure to technology, mentorship and opportunity,” Hopkins said. “This initiative empowers middle school students from under-resourced communities to explore STEM while envisioning their future careers.”
Delaware State University’s program is part of a national Verizon initiative that partners with colleges and universities across the country to provide immersive STEM and entrepreneurship experiences for middle school students.
