STEM Extravaganza ignites curiosity and hope for South Carolina students
October 7, 2025
Children from across the state get hands-on STEM experiences and career inspiration as part of the nationwide Lights on Afterschool celebration
The South Carolina Afterschool Alliance (SCAA) welcomed more than 1,000 students and educators representing 33 afterschool programs from 10 counties across the state to Segra Park for the third annual SC STEM Extravaganza, a daylong celebration of curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning.
“Afterschool programs are more than just a safe place — they are where young people discover passions, build skills, and gain confidence,” said Zelda Waymer, President and CEO of the South Carolina Afterschool Alliance. “Events like the STEM Extravaganza show the power of giving students hands-on opportunities to learn and grow.”
The high-energy event featured interactive exhibits in robotics, engineering, coding, and science — all designed to show how learning after the school day connects to real-world innovation and careers.
“Today was all about showing kids different paths — especially through STEM — and helping them see careers they might never have considered,” said Nick Washington, Original Six Program Director, event planning committee member, and event volunteer. “For some, it might even spark an interest they didn’t know they had in science or technology.”
The SC STEM Extravaganza is part of Lights on Afterschool, the only nationwide celebration of afterschool programs, with more than 8,000 events held across the country each year. The initiative shines a light on the vital role afterschool programs play in keeping kids safe, inspiring learning, and supporting working families.
The event could not have been possible without the generous support of its sponsors: Champion Sponsors: STEM Next; Richland School District One; City of Columbia; Charles Stewart Mott Foundation. Supporter Sponsor: The Links, Incorporated — Columbia (SC) Chapter.
South Carolina Afterschool Alliance (SCAA) is a partnership among state government agencies, municipal leaders, foundations, higher education, business leaders, the arts community, local school districts, after school program providers and other critical stakeholders joining together to form a supportive statewide network for after-school and summer learning programs. SCAA works with its partners to raise awareness, increase sustainability, and promote the importance of quality afterschool programs. For additional information please visit http://scafterschool.com/.
