Scientists to Classrooms: A thriving Science News Learning outreach program

For three years, classrooms participating in Science News Learning have welcomed scientists to share their research and career journeys, giving students opportunities to connect with inspiring role models, engage with real-world science and explore potential STEM careers. This year, Regeneron scientists returned to share their experiences and showed how concepts they learn in the classroom and read in Science News Media Group journalism are applied in the lab. Science News Learning, a STEM outreach program of Society for Science, encourages middle and high school students across the country to learn about the latest in science research across the breadth of scientific fields and supports educators in expanding their students’ STEM literacy. The program leverages Science News Media Group’s award-winning print and online journalism, and an expansive library of ready-to-use lesson plans, to make article integration simple and seamless for teachers.

Through this Regeneron-sponsored program, visits took place during the 2025-2026 school year in states including New York, New Jersey, Washington, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Tennessee.

The program included 56 visits, with 51 Regeneron scientists delivering 109 presentations and engaging 57 teachers. Approximately 2,600 students participated, about 24 percent more than the 2,100 students reached during the 2024-2025 school year.

 

 

For Regeneron, Scientists to Classrooms supports both student engagement and employee volunteerism. “This program turns two of our responsibility goals into action: fueling the pipeline of future scientific innovators and empowering colleagues to use their expertise through skills-based volunteering. Across our U.S. sites, scientists brought their work, school and career journeys and passion for discovery directly to students, making STEM feel possible and inspiring the next generation of scientists. In return, students’ curiosity and thoughtful questions reenergize our scientists. The inspiration goes both ways,” said Ali McDowell, Senior Manager of Social Impact at Regeneron.

Post-visit surveys of participating Regeneron scientists also found benefits beyond the classroom. All respondents said participating had a positive impact on Regeneron’s culture, while 86% said it strengthened their sense of belonging. These findings suggest that Scientists to Classrooms not only inspires students but also fosters engagement and connection among Regeneron employees.

Regeneron also brought the initiative to the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), giving its scientists an opportunity to connect with young researchers from around the world in Arizona this year.

“Bringing this idea to life at ISEF was a natural extension of Scientists to Classrooms. It gave our scientists an opportunity to share their personal journeys, unexpected turns and breakthroughs behind their work with students from around the world, connecting with young people who are already deeply engaged in research, and showing them that there is no single path to becoming a scientist or making a meaningful impact through science,” McDowell said.

Post-visit survey findings showed that students gained exposure to real STEM careers, were attentive and asked thoughtful questions, and felt STEM careers were more accessible and attainable. These were just a few of the positive findings.

Here’s what some of the teachers and scientists said about their experiences:

From the teachers:

“I think it gives the students a bit more confidence and relieves some of their fears about their own career and academic goals. Hearing about all the different paths one can take to science, and how for some of the scientists, their paths have changed over the years, is very inspirational for them.”

— Kimberly Fleming, White Plains High School (White Plains, N.Y.)

“The scientists helped students see how topics they study, such as molecular biology, chemistry, and experimental design, are used to solve real-world problems.”

— Christy Hudak, Nanuet Senior High School (Nanuet, N.Y.)

“Dear Dr. Simon, the students and I would like to extend heartfelt thanks for taking the time to visit our classroom and share insights into your research and professional journey. Your presentation offered a fascinating glimpse into the world of scientific discovery and inspired curiosity and excitement among the students. … The enthusiasm and passion you brought to your talk have encouraged many students to explore science more deeply and consider future careers in research. Thank you again for your generosity, inspiration, and dedication to advancing knowledge. Your visit made a lasting impact on our classroom community.”

— Andrea Joseph and the students at Ridgewood High School (Ridgewood, N.J.)

“A lot of our students thought that if you worked in a lab, you were by yourself all day and working independently. They now understand the collaborative nature of scientific lab research.”

— Shellie Kerrigan, North Reading High School (North Reading, Mass.)

“Having access to a professional from outside your school walls is a game-changer.”

— Katherine Nuzzo, Joel Barlow High School (Redding, Conn.)

“The scientist was highly relatable to our kids in that she highlighted her resilience and humble science background, emphasizing that … she did not get into Regeneron the first time she applied, but by persevering she got to where she is today.”

— Abigail Seo, Peekskill High School (Peekskill, N.Y.)

From the scientists:

“It was amazing to see how much schools have advanced and are incorporating modern science into their curriculum. I was excited to see these opportunities for students that come from a similar upbringing as me.”

— Krystal Ching, Associate Manager Research Program Management  at Regeneron

“It was great to see how the small group digested the Science News article and what parts were interesting to them, challenging to understand, or most exciting for them.”

— Eric Hayden, Principal Scientist at Regeneron

“Hi Kimberly! So happy we were able to make such a positive impact on your students. They were a great group. Also, a big kudos to you! Thank you for making the process so easy. Your students are lucky to have such a passionate teacher like you finding resources for them.”

— Jackie O’Hara, Associate Scientist at Regeneron

“I left feeling inspired and genuinely uplifted by the opportunity to connect with such motivated students.”

— Anita Venkitaraman, Senior Scientist at Regeneron Cell Medicines

Learn more about the Science News Learning program here.