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FSI Unites Campus and Community with First-Ever ‘STEM on the Lawn’ Event

Hosted by the UF | Florida Semiconductor Institute, the first annual STEM on the Lawn event brought together more than 900 students, families, educators, and community members on Saturday, September 27 at the Reitz Union Lawn for a day of hands-on learning, discovery, and STEM-focused fun.

As a free, family-friendly community event, STEM on the Lawn reflects FSI’s mission to inspire and empower the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators. From robotics and virtual reality to chemistry experiments and semiconductor education, the event brought STEM to life for attendees of all ages.

“We believe in building a strong, inclusive pipeline into STEM careers, starting with excitement and exposure at the earliest stages,” said Sophia Watson, Assistant Director of Workforce Development at the UF | Florida Semiconductor Institute. “STEM on the Lawn is one of the ways we’re bringing the universities, local schools, and community together to spark that curiosity.”

Event Highlights:
  • Hands-On STEM Activities: Interactive exhibits allowed participants to experiment with circuits, VR headsets, 3D printing, and more, encouraging both learning and play.
  • Robotics Demonstrations: The Alachua County Public Schools Robotics Club showcased student-built robots in action, engaging kids and parents alike.
  • Fab Lab Frenzy Makerspace: Guided by FSI’s Workforce Development team, guests rolled up their sleeves to explore semiconductor creativity and engineering with tools and materials in our collaborative Fab Lab.
  • Semiconductors in Action: One of FSI’s core exhibits demonstrated how microchips power modern life, from smartphones to space travel, and introduced pathways into semiconductor careers through our newly launched initiative Etch, a state-led initiative launched by FSI, and co-funded by the Florida Semiconductor Engine, that bridges the gap between education and careers in semiconductors.
  • STEM Career Panel: Moderated by Dr. Sindia Rivera-Jimenez of UF’s Department of Engineering Education, the panel featured STEM professionals including Vivian Rincon Dib (SHPE), Rebekah Cristobol (SWE), and Kalai Sankar (Shiva Robotics Academy), who shared insights on navigating and thriving in STEM fields.
  • Food, Photos & Fun: Guests enjoyed free pizza and drinks, along with fun extras like a science-themed selfie station and live raffle prizes, making the event both accessible and memorable for all.
Thank You to Our Partners

We extend our deepest gratitude to the participating UF departments, local organizations, educators, student volunteers, and our event sponsors for helping bring this event to life. Your support ensures that STEM on the Lawn remains a vibrant and impactful tradition year after year. Learn more about all of the organizations and sponsors involved in this year’s event here.

View the full photo gallery here.