PITTSBURGH, March 14, 2023 – Middle school students from Manchester Academic Charter School recently celebrated Dr. Percy Julian Lab Day with La Roche University faculty, students and staff.
The event, funded by a grant given to La Roche by the PPG Foundation, provided students with STEM exposure and experiences. La Roche’s Center for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, in partnership with its Center for Lifelong Learning, offered the event as part of the University’s Black History Month programming.
Sarah White, executive director for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and chief diversity officer, said, “This event celebrated Dr. Percy Julian’s impact while introducing middle school youth from underrepresented groups to STEM studies and careers. La Roche is proud to partner with the PPG Foundation to provide STEM exposure through engaging activities and interactions with our faculty and students.”
Middle school students rotated through interactive sessions in biology, chemistry, human-centered design and computer science, toured campus and met La Roche students.
“By sharing stories such as Dr. Julian’s with young students, we honor the incredible impacts of Black innovators in our country and spark an early interest and curiosity in the possibilities of STEM studies,” said Malesia Dunn, executive director, PPG Foundation and corporate global social responsibility. “The PPG Foundation is proud to partner with La Roche to help middle school students see the connections between STEM ideas and real-life innovations and careers.”
Credited as a trailblazing chemist whose breakthroughs improved and saved countless lives, Dr. Percy Julian spearheaded world-changing innovation. From discovering medicinal drugs to treat glaucoma and arthritis to advocating for human rights, Dr. Julian’s influential life includes his work with the GLIDDEN® brand, formerly the Glidden Company, owned by PPG.
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About La Roche University: A private liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers 66 undergraduate programs of study, six master’s degrees and one doctoral degree, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for nearly 1,200 men and women enjoying 30-plus student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.