MobileMinds

MobileMinds, a branch of the Florida Atlantic Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute’s ASCEND (Advancing STEM Community Engagement through Neuroscience Discovery) program, recently received generous support from the Per and Astrid Heidenreich Family Foundation. MobileMinds, aims to close the Title I STEM gap in Northern Palm Beach County by taking science and scientists to middle school students who are falling far behind in this area.  

The MobileMinds van, wrapped in kid-friendly brain illustrations, delivers and demonstrates neuroscience principles with fun, touch-screen and VR-based lessons. “Brain Boxes’ ' are left with each participating student that allows for take-home activities.  The program partners with the South Florida Science Center and Aquarium (SFSCA) to build and teach the curriculum.  

“The Heidenreich gift will allow us to extend our educational outreach programs to many more kids in Palm Beach, Martin and Broward counties, particularly those historically underserved,” said Randy Blakely, Ph.D., Executive Director of Florida Atlantic’s Stiles-Nicholson Brain Institute. “As practicing neuroscientists, we take seriously the statement that ‘a mind is a terrible thing to waste.’ This gift will have a far-reaching impact.”

This donation builds on a recent Impact the Palm Beaches “Merit Grant” to support MobileMinds.