I had the honor of participating in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement) Center at Eastern Washington University. At the request of Dean Melissa Graham, I helped cut the ribbon during the event, marking the official opening of this important space dedicated to supporting students pursuing STEM education.
The celebration also highlighted the impressive work being done by students in MESA programs across the region. During the event, three future scientists from MESA programs at Lewis and Clark High School and Westwood Middle School were recognized with tokens toward future scholarship opportunities at EWU.
Students from Lewis and Clark High School earned regional recognition and placed second in the state for their innovative project that combined an affordable washing machine with website support to help members of the unhoused community keep their clothing clean. Meanwhile, the Westwood Middle School team won regional, state, and national competitions for developing a prototype early-warning system designed to assist with wildfire evacuations.
The event was attended by leaders and supporters of the statewide Washington MESA program, including Executive Director Sezi Fleming, who acknowledged the collaboration of university leadership, community partners, and support from the Washington State Legislature in bringing the EWU MESA program to life.
EWU Trustee Uriel Iñiguez also spoke during the ceremony, recognizing the work of President Shari McMahan, university leadership, faculty, staff, and students in helping create new opportunities for students pursuing STEM pathways. He emphasized that initiatives like the MESA Center help break down barriers and create pathways for student success.
President McMahan shared that Eastern Washington University currently ranks number one in Washington state for social mobility and highlighted how the MESA program directly supports that mission. She described the new center as more than just a physical space, calling it a “launchpad of opportunity” for students.
Since opening, the MESA Resource Center—located inside the Catalyst Building (CEB)—has quickly become a hub for student success. The center provides tutoring, academic advising, resume workshops, guest speakers, and other support services, particularly benefiting students who may be the first in their families to attend college. The center is open to all EWU students enrolled in STEM courses.
Through the MESA program, the university is also offering co-horted math classes for the first time. These courses provide students with the same instructor throughout the academic year, smaller class sizes, and access to teaching assistants who offer tutoring in the MESA Student Center.
Dean Graham shared that the center has already begun fostering a strong sense of community among students. In addition to academic support, students are gathering in the space to connect with one another, participate in activities, and build a supportive learning environment.
Being part of this milestone event was a meaningful experience, and it was inspiring to witness the dedication of educators, community partners, and students working together to expand opportunities in science, engineering, and mathematics.