AMES, Iowa – 
Alexa Groff has been hired as Iowa 4-H Youth Development’s new STEM program coordinator and online learning specialist. In this role, Groff will develop STEM educational experiences for youth, which includes serving as the State Science & Technology Fair of Iowa (SSTFI) director. Additionally, she will specialize in developing educational experiences and programs for youth that are accessible online and through at-home learning experiences.
Iowa 4-H STEM programs work to engage youth through hands-on experiences that connect to their lives and respond to their interests. 4-H programming uses hands-on activities in science, technology, engineering and math to teach problem-solving, creative and critical thinking, and inspire kids to explore STEM professions.
“I look forward to increasing excitement and involvement in STEM for students across Iowa,” said Groff. “I have a great passion in helping youth innovate through STEM education. The possibilities are endless and the most fun!”
Groff graduated from Northwestern College with a bachelor’s degree in biology education and is currently pursuing a master’s degree from Western Illinois University in Educational Studies. Groff has taught high school science at Central Decatur High School, West Central Valley High School and Adair-Casey/Guthrie Center.
Groff has won numerous awards for her achievements in teaching science. In 2017, she was awarded the National Science Teacher of the Year. In 2016, she received Recognition for Excellence in Teaching through the Belin-Blank Center. She also won the Pre-Service College Science Education Award in 2011 at the State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa, where she was able to attend the International Science Fair.
Involvement with science fairs is not new for Groff, as she’s participated in some way for the past 20 years. Beginning as a student, she participated in the science fair in school from 2001-2007. She then served on the state board for 13 years as the co-chair of the Display and Safety Committee. As a science teacher, she brought students to compete in the science fair for the past seven years. In addition, she served as the Western Regional Science Fair director from 2017-2021.
For more information on the Iowa 4-H Youth Development program, please contact your county ISU Extension and Outreach office or visit the Iowa 4-H website at www.extension.iastate.edu/4h.
Shareable Photo: Alexa Groff.
