The Color of Science was a conversation between four varied scientists on their experience as an African American scientist. Joining both the young and old, moderator Derrick Pitts, Chief Astronomer of The Franklin Institute, interviewed each scientist individually before bringing all the scientists together as a panel to talk about their achievements and overcoming obstacles to obtain success. The Franklin Institute was one of ScienceMakers' science center partners in 2011.
The scientists featured included:
- Sharon Haynie, Chemist, DuPont
- Chad Jenkins, Professor of Robotics, Brown University
- Edward Tunstel, Space Robotics & Autonomous Control Lead in the Space Department, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
- James E. West, Professor of Engineering, Johns Hopkins University
During the day program the following Saturday, the scientists were stationed throughout the museum to speak to groups of students about their work and its relation to students' lives. Some of the partnering youth institutions included:
- The Franklin Institute's Partnerships for Achieving Careers in Technology & Science
- The Philadelphia Zoo
- The New Jersey Academy for Aquatic Sciences
- Village to Village
- Overbrook Environmental Center
- Please Touch Museum
The HistoryMakers staff has created a finding aid for this event. View/Download below:
About PACTS
PACTS (Partnerships for Achieving Careers in Technology and Science) is a year-round youth leadership experience, designed to involve students as an integral part of The Franklin Institute. It combines science enrichment, career development, mentoring, and leadership opportunities for diverse middle and high school students in the Philadelphia region. Read more about the program at their website.
