Conversations with Keli Christopher

Today we’d like to introduce you to Keli Christopher.

Keli, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin? 

I noticed a lack of STEM programming that would actually prepare children of color for STEM careers. Most STEM programs are either done by White STEM professionals who have no idea what it takes for a person of color to successfully navigate a career in STEM, or it is done by well-meaning teachers who have no idea what it takes to become a person of color in STEM. 

Ultimately, someone has to prepare children for the academic rigor that is involved in obtaining a STEM degree. I knew that a day of coding and or a week of STEM camp was not going to be enough for children of color. So, I created the STEM Greenhouse, which is a metaphor for incubation and growth. We want our children to have time to learn and grow. Our programming is from third to 12th grades now.

STEM Greenhouse is really an idea whose time has come. We have math and science programming in schools during the school day, after school, and in the summer. The investment in these children is paying off. I see STEM Greenhouse growing throughout West Michigan and even the state. It can grow beyond that of course but I’m very particular about program quality and that means more to me than quantity. I carefully consider my growth options. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The biggest hurdle STEM Greenhouse faces right now is simply the fact that this has never been done before. When it comes to integrating STEM into schools, most people have such a limited idea of what that means. Some people think it is a class. Some people think that you can get kids in STEM by introducing them to technology alone and not providing them the skills to develop that technology. It doesn’t mean that these approaches have no merit, but I believe so much more needs to be done. I’m pressing our community to ask itself, “How can organizations walk alongside school districts that need community investment? How can organizations work with school districts to put the kids first?” We are not going to get the next generation of STEM professionals without Black and Brown children becoming proficient in math and science. Right now, in Kent County, only 5% of Black 11th graders are proficient in math (KConnect data dashboard). Robots alone are not going to cut it. A baking soda and vinegar volcano is not enough. When we invest in children’s education in a meaningful way, for years, we will get the reward of having a diverse talent pipeline. Right now, STEM industries are struggling with not having any pipeline at all. We need children of color in STEM. They have outnumbered white children in America’s public schools since 2014 (I can find this reference for you if you can’t find it). We are reaping what we have sown. 

I’m a widow with 2 children. My son is a senior in High School, and my daughter is in the 9th grade. When my husband died in 2018, I was building STEM greenhouse, and there were times that I thought logically it would make more sense for me to quit. But again, I decided to step out on faith. I knew in my spirit that God had given me all the tools to do this work. I’m glad I didn’t give up. Resilience is like a muscle. I’m very strong. I honestly feel that I can do anything I set my mind to. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
We have an exceptional staff that looks like the children we serve. https://stemgreenhouse.org/about/our-team/ 

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I do enjoy Vibrant Living International. It is a great resource for inspiration and practical advice on how to live (work & personal) from a Christian perspective. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://stemgreenhouse.org/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stemgreenhouse/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stem-greenhouse/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChyVG3GIiMQm1gu9Kd6BAqg

Image Credits
Doug Sims
Elizabeth Marie Photography