(Photos by Bonnie Coley-Malir)
 

Dublin AM Rotary’s own Ann Ralston, who is also an executive board member of CORI, offered some perspective on the history of our Club’s support of robotics in Dublin and Central Ohio.  Our Club got involved in the robotics program in the Dublin high schools around 2002 and has expanded our support over the years to include multiple club members involved in the programs in the high schools, the Lego League in the middle schools and broader Central Ohio initiatives through CORI.

Ann introduced Greg King, Dublin Coffman High School Engineering Academy Teacher and Robotics Team Advisor.  Greg shared with our club how the FIRST Robotics (For Inspiration & Recognition of Science and Technology) platform is inspiring STEM learning in many students in the Dublin City Schools.  Over 100 alums of the Robotics program in Dublin have gone on to pursue STEM related careers and many more are currently in STEM-related majors in their college studies.  Beyond inspiring interest in science, math and engineering, Greg explained that the Robotics teams are expanding their outreach to other initiatives in the schools and in the community. In addition, the students are building valuable interpersonal skills, self-confidence, collaboration and team building skills.  Dublin’s team this year built two robots – each taking approximately 2,300 man hours just for assembly after they have been designed.  May 21st is the State Robotics Championship, which is being held at Worthington Kilbourne H.S., and on June 18th, Dublin Coffman H.S. hosts the Central Ohio Robotics Initiative (for more information: http://growrobotics.org/)

Dublin AM Rotary Club member and Dublin City Schools Superintendent, Dr. Todd Hoadley, spoke about the positive impact that the robotics program has in preparing these students for the dynamic nature of today’s global economy. The collaboration and critical thinking skills gained through this program and academies like the Engineering Academy are designed to help the students become the innovators for the future.  

 

OTHER CLUB NEWS

Reminder from Rita Hook that Saturday, May 21st, is our Spring social function.  Meet at the Play Polo Club polo match at 3pm, with proceeds from the event benefitting “La Via” orphanage in Moldova (one of our club’s international projects).  Information and registration link: Play Polo Club

Betty Isaacs updated on the Visiting Author program on May 25th. Carole Gerber, a local author, will present her book, “Seeds, Bees, Butterflies and More!” to 125 students at Daniela Wright Elementary, and Franklin Park Conservatory will be doing a butterfly presentation.  Club members are welcomed to participate and help distribute the books to the students. Please contact Betty if you are interested in participating on the 25th.

Pete Fuhlbrigge announced the return of the Dublin Slider Challenge which will be held on Saturday, July 9th from 1-4pm with a number of restaurants in historic Dublin participating.  Mark your calendars and spread the word!  All proceeds benefit the Dublin AM Rotary Foundation.

Congratulation to Wendy Sheridan on being awarded a Paul Harris Fellow!