Do you know someone who is making a meaningful impact on STEM education in our community? Now is your chance to recognize and celebrate them!
STEM City is now accepting nominations for the STEMMY Awards, honoring individuals and organizations who help STEM thrive in Flagstaff. From innovative classrooms and inspiring students to dedicated teachers, businesses, and community partners, the STEMMY Awards shine a spotlight on the people who make STEM possible in Flagstaff. Help us celebrate the changemakers who spark curiosity, creativity, and connection through STEM—submit a nomination today!
We are accepting nominations in the following four categories:
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2025 STEMMY Award Winner Highlight
STEM Student of the Year
Elena Klopfenstein, Coconino High School
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Elena Klopfenstein, a high school student in the 2024-2025 school year and incoming undergraduate at Stanford University, from the Navajo Nation reservation expanded access to robotics and STEM education for Indigenous youth. She is the founder of Rezbotics, an organization that has established over 20 robotics teams on the reservation and organized the first-ever all-Indigenous FIRST Robotics tournament, bringing together more than 150 students. In 2025, one of her teams advanced to the FIRST Robotics World Championship, and her own team received the prestigious Impact Award at the World Championship for its sustained community impact.
In addition to her work in robotics, Elena is a national advocate for equitable STEM policy. She contributed to advocacy efforts connected to the CHIPS and Science Act, organized the Arizona Advocacy Conference, and traveled to the Pentagon to promote expanded STEM opportunities for Indigenous youth. She also serves as a cultural specialist with the Grand Canyon Trust, where she leads environmental education trips and addresses critical issues affecting the Colorado Plateau, reflecting her commitment to both technological innovation and environmental stewardship.
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Celebrating Black History Month
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Black History Month is a time to honor the achievements, resilience, and lasting impact of Black leaders who have shaped our world and to recognize how their contributions continue to inspire future generations. In science, technology, engineering, and math, Black innovators have broken barriers, expanded knowledge, and opened doors for those who follow. At Flagstaff STEM City, celebrating these stories is central to our mission of building an inclusive STEM ecosystem where every student can see themselves as a scientist, engineer, innovator, or problem-solver.
At STEM City, these stories reinforce why representation matters. When students learn about innovators like Mae Jemison and Victor Glover, they do not just learn history. They see possibilities. By connecting education, industry, and community partners, STEM City is committed to ensuring that students of all backgrounds have the resources, inspiration, and support they need to explore STEM pathways and shape the future.
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Dr. Mae Jemison
In 1992, Mae Jemison made history as the first African American woman to travel into space aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour. A physician, engineer, and astronaut, her achievement broke long-standing barriers in aerospace and inspired generations of young women and people of color to pursue STEM careers.
After leaving NASA, she founded the Jemison Group to connect science, technology, and social impact in developing countries.
Learn more about Dr. Mae Jemison at https://www.nasa.gov/people/mae-jemison-m-d/
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Victor J. Glover
Victor J. Glover is making history as the pilot of NASA’s Artemis II mission, becoming the first Black astronaut to travel around the Moon.
A naval aviator, engineer, and NASA astronaut, Glover’s career reflects excellence, perseverance, and leadership in STEM. From studying engineering to serving on the International Space Station and now helping lead humanity’s return to the Moon, his journey shows what’s possible when curiosity meets opportunity.
Learn more about Victor J. Glover: https://www.nasa.gov/people/victor-j-glover-jr/
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Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month
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Every February is National CTE (Career & Technical Education) Month. During this time of celebration and advocacy, it is important to shed a light on those people and programs that make CTE such a valuable part of our nation’s educational system, and of Flagstaff Unified School District (FUSD) specifically. The nation-wide educational tapestry dedicated to developing the next generation of highly skilled workers, creators, designers, technologists, healthcare providers, business leaders, educators, and more is well-represented in our community via the 15 different CTE programs offered in FUSD high schools.
Covering subject areas from Welding to Graphic Design and Engineering to Digital Photography, from Culinary Arts to Automotive Technologies, Film & TV Production, and much more, there is a program where anyone can find their interest. The College & Career Development Department helps FUSD realize its mission and vision by providing a comprehensive, relevant journey of learning to the youth of Flagstaff and surrounding areas. Seeking whole-student development which readies them for whatever postsecondary path they may choose – as well as responsible citizenship – goes beyond the realm of strict academics, and encompasses development of technical skills and knowledge, cultivation of “soft” skills and character, and real-world opportunities for bringing these things together in a meaningful way via work-based learning. In order to help students make informed educational decisions and life choices based on their own interests and ambitions, college and career development (CCD) follows the course of awareness, exploration, and preparation. These elements can take place at different levels, at different times, and in a multitude of ways, but the progression allows for a student to reach high school graduation with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed at whatever their chosen path may be.
With robust community and post-secondary connections, and a partnership with the Coconino Association for Vocations, Industry, and Technology (CAVIAT) which offers even more program areas, FUSD’s CTE programs are uniquely positioned to provide a very high “bang for the buck” – both for students and for the community in which we live.
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Full STEAM Ahead at the Early Childhood STEAM Fair
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Families with young children are invited to join the 11th Annual Flagstaff Early Childhood STEAM Fair on Saturday, April 11, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at W. F. Killip Elementary School. This free, family-friendly event takes place during Week of the Young Child and is designed especially for children from pregnancy through age eight.
Families can explore hands-on STEAM activities, enjoy resources for parents and caregivers, take part in a teacher supply swap, and access services such as dental screenings. With snacks, playful learning, and interactive experiences throughout the morning, the fair offers something for every young learner.
Community organizations and educators help bring the event to life by hosting activity tables that spark curiosity in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Organizations interested in hosting a table or activity can register here: 👉 https://forms.gle/TCoqisQRuhkPTFA98
STEM City and partners are also working to connect this fair with a related event for older students, creating a welcoming space where families with children of all ages can come together to explore, learn, and have fun.
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2026 STEMMY Awards
We’re thrilled to share that the 2026 STEMMY Awards will take place at Lowell Observatory — an inspiring new venue that perfectly celebrates discovery, innovation, and exploration! Guests will have the opportunity to experience the new space and even enjoy a stargazing experience.
- Save the Date: March 19, 2026
- Event Time: 6:00–7:30 p.m.
- Hors d’oeuvres: 5:45–6:00 p.m.
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2026 STEM Celebration
The 2026 Annual Community STEM Celebration is an opportunity for all of Flagstaff to engage with the STEM community. This year, the STEM Celebration will return to the Fort Tuthill Fairgrounds with both indoor and outdoor exhibits.
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Follow Our New Facebook Page!
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STEM City is excited to launch our new Facebook page, where we’ll highlight Flagstaff’s incredible STEM ecosystem and share stories from our schools, partners, and community. Follow us at facebook.com/flagstaffstemto stay updated on upcoming events, student opportunities, community partnerships, volunteer needs, and the innovative work happening across Northern Arizona.
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