4-H Science Ambassadors to participate in USA Science and Engineering Festival, Washington DC

(MIAMI, April 14, 2014) Miami-Dade County proudly extends congratulations to three 4-H Teen Science Ambassadors: Leandra Gonzalez of Northwestern Senior High; Sierra McLaughlin of Doctors Charter School of Miami Shores, and John Coolidge of Pacesetters Homeschool. Sponsored by a grant from Motorola, these student ambassadors have been chosen to participate in the 3rd Annual USA Science and Engineering Festival in Washington, DC on April 25-27, 2014.  The Science Festival, the largest STEM education event in the United States, will present hands-on science and engineering activities, shows, talks and career information to over 250,000 people over the three days.

The teens were chosen for their commitment to the field of environmental science, according to Ruth Santos, the 4-H Agent who will accompany to Washington DC. “Leandra, John and Sierra are passionate about both local and global environmental concerns,” she says. “At the Festival they will provide information and fun, hands-on activities to raise awareness about ocean acidification, an issue they feel very strongly about. Representing Miami-Dade County at such an important event is a great honor for us all, and I am proud to be accompanying such a deserving team.”

When not presenting or attending dedicated activities, the 4-H Ambassadors can look forward to attending presentations by the likes of Bill Nye, Science Guy, touring the Capitol, and exploring Washington’s Mall and the historic city.

ABOUT 4-H (Ages 5-19) 4-H Motto: Head, Heart, Hands and Health

4-H is the nation’s largest youth development organization that serves to encourage and empower our youth to reach their full potential, working and learning in partnership, with caring adults.  Setting positive goals help enable youth to emerge as leaders through hands-on learning, research-based 4-H youth programs and adult mentorship.  Youth build self-esteem, confidence, connect with and give back to their community, develop leadership skills, make friends, share interests and gain valuable knowledge and lifelong skills.