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I just completed my visits to this year's ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camps, managing to personally attend 16 out of the 20 camps around the nation and Skyping into the remaining four. It is certainly fitting that in these camps, where we advocate science and math education/careers, we utilize a shining example of the limitless possibilities of technology - "internet video" - to conduct virtual visits.  The kids love it! 

 

Again this year, I saw firsthand the impact that we are having around the nation and  I was very pleased with the quality of the teachers, the staff and our students. The students were inquisitive, intelligent and knowledgeable about STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).  Their questions were extremely thoughtful and specific. We had discussions about alternative energy, the mechanics of space flight, and black holes. Because I believe in the power of dreams, each year I ask the students what they want to be when they grow up. This year, one student responded confidently, "An Astrophysicist!" I remember this and think, "Wow! We are encouraging the future in a meaningful way." 

 

During an interview on a visit, one reporter asked, "Why aren't you (EMBHSSC) focused on remediation of students in the underserved areas?" Though many of THF's other programs focus on this population of students, the answer as to why EMBHSSC does not accept underperforming students can be found in my response. "Our program is targeting the highly achieving students who are academically strong but who are from socially and economically disadvantaged communities because they too need programs that are challenging and provide a springboard to higher achievement.  We believe that if you support this group, the impact to the community and the nation will be far greater."  As we conduct our longitudinal survey of EMBHSSC alumni, we are finding that this does indeed ring true.

 

The Harris Foundation's mission is to provide support to all students, families and communities of this nation in the areas of education, health and wealth. As one of our flagship program wraps up for 2012, I  give my sincerest thanks to the students, the staff, the universities and the communities that have made the ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camps a success!

 

Bernard A. Harris, Jr.

President and Founder

 

 

 

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AUGUST 2012
MAY-JULY HIGHLIGHTS IN...
THF IN THE NEWS
UPCOMING EVENTS

May - July2012 Highlights in...

 

EDUCATION

 

2012 ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camps 

This summer, the EMBHSSC reached over 1000 students at 20 universities. 

 

2012 Spring Dream Tour stops land... 

The Dream Tour landed in Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh) and California (Torrance and Los Angeles).

 

ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp Alumni Reconnect with The Harris Foundation

The 2012 EMBHSSC Alumni Survey concluded this June. Past EMBHSSC participants who will be 9th graders and rising college freshman in the fall of 2012 were surveyed. Two winners were selected at random. To read their story, click here

 

A full report of the alumni survey results is forthcoming this fall.

 

2012 ExxonMobil Bernard Harris Math and Science Scholarship Winners Selected

To read more about the scholarship and this year's winners, click here.

 

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HEALTH:

 

Dr. Rajiv Kumar (RWJF-CHL, 2009) teams up to help people lose weight. 

To read the study that shows how social influences and team support help individuals take off pounds, click here.

 

In Oakland, California, Laura Lopez (RWJF-CHL, 2007) continues to make a difference in the lives of those without healthcare. 

To read more, click here.

 

So You Want to Start a Diaper Bank? Joanne Goldbum (RWJF-CHL, 2007) created a manual based on her impressive work that will teach you how. 

To read the manual and access National Diaper Bank Network's blog, click here.

 

 

THF IN THE NEWS

 

2012 EMBHSSC In the News

UPCOMING EVENTS
September 2012
2012-2013 Dare to Dream Training
Houston, Texas

October 2012
EMBHSSC Fall Forum
Houston, Texas

RWJF-CHL Annual Meeting
San Antonio, Texas

About The Harris Foundation

Founded in 1998 by Dr. Bernard A. Harris, Jr., The Harris Foundation, Inc. (THF) is a 501 (c) (3), non-profit organization based in Houston, Texas, whose mission is to invest in community-based initiatives to support education, health and wealth. THF supports programs that empower individuals, in particular minorities and others who are economically and/or socially disadvantaged, to recognize their potential and pursue their dreams. Through our interactive STEM education, health and wealth programs, we prepare students and communities for a world of infinite possibilities.
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