Inspiring and encouraging budding scientists is the focus of the West-STEM Program in which OSUCCC – James researchers exchange information and knowledge with students at West High School, a Columbus city school serving a diverse student population.
Students who are interested in cancer research and careers in this field are invited to attend monthly meetings that follow a cancer-based curriculum. During the meetings, expert cancer researchers share their knowledge and experiences while fostering a sense of academic inclusion and encouragement. Students also have the opportunity, through networking, to establish long-term relationships with some of the world’s most renowned cancer researchers, all within a comfortable and familiar school setting.
Directed by OSUCCC – James hematologist and researcher Robert Baiocchi, MD, PhD, the West-STEM Program is supported by a philanthropic gift directed toward engaging URM high school students interested in STEM careers and cancer research in particular.