WMU to host Science Olympiad statewide competition

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—The Michigan Science Olympiad State Tournament will take place at Western Michigan University on Saturday, May 4, marking the first time the event will be held in Kalamazoo.

Nearly 2,000 students in grades 6-12 who were the top winners from each of Michigan's regional events will descend on WMU’s campus for the event. While here, they will compete in a series of 23 team events in areas such as experimental design, astronomy, ecology, chemistry, forensics and much more.

“We are proud to host the state Science Olympiad competition at Western and to support Michigan’s future leaders in science and technology,” says Dr. Julian Vasquez Heilig, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “We look forward to showcasing our campus as a place to call home and a hub for intellectual exploration that nurtures talent and fosters innovation."

The event is hosted by Western’s College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, along with presenting sponsor Pfizer Corp. and bronze sponsor Consumers Energy.

“Engaging with some of the brightest students from across Michigan in this high-level competition is exciting for them and exciting for WMU,” says Dr. Steve Butt, dean of Western’s College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. “Our campus will offer these students the opportunity to learn about the college experience and how a college education and a STEM career can impact the world.”

Every stage of the competition emphasizes active, hands-on group participation, which provides students, teachers, parents, principals and business leaders an opportunity to bond together and work toward a shared goal. 

Students at this state tournament will have an opportunity to qualify for the Science Olympiad National Competition finals that will be held at Michigan State University May 24-25.

Science Olympiad is a national non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of K-12 science education, increasing opportunity and diversity in science, creating a technologically literate workforce and providing recognition for outstanding achievement by both students and teachers.

Learn more about the state competition at WMU. For more information, contact Marty Buehler, WMU director of Science Olympiad.

For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.