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Southern Illinois University Edwardsville is proud to host the Science Olympiad regional tournament and enrich students’ education in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The hands-on, team-based event will be held on Saturday, Feb. 14 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

The tournament is similar to a track meet, but with an academic focus. SIUE will host 300 student participants, grades 6-12, from across the region.

“This competition gives students a chance to pursue STEM in a way that stimulates different emotions from other science activities and provides an enhanced feeling of teamwork,” said Colin Wilson, resource center manager of SIUE’s STEM Research Center. “Students interested in Science Olympiad are an enthusiastic population who can see the opportunities that institutions like SIUE provide.”

Teams of 15 students investigate some 23 different events ranging from concepts in life, earth and physical science to engineering devices. Events are held throughout the SIUE campus, in the Engineering Building, Science West Building and the Vadalabene Center, with teams based in the Morris University Center.

“This is a national program, of which Illinois is a leading state,” said Mike Avara, regional director. “Not only are science background and skills emphasized, but also the concept of teamwork and collaboration in research and problem-solving.”

SIUE’s event is one of nine regional competitions in Illinois. Leading teams from each regional tournament will advance to the State Tournament held at The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign on April 17-18.

For more information regarding the tournament at SIUE, click here.

For more information on the Science Olympiad national program, click here.