AMES, Iowa – Sara Nelson has been hired as the new 4-H STEM program specialist for the Iowa 4-H Youth Development Program. She will oversee STEM product development and STEM literacy outreach to enhance access to educational learning opportunities for all K-12 youth.
4-H is the youth development program of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
Nelson’s responsibilities will include leading the State Science and Technology Fair of Iowa, as well as STEM curriculum and resource development. She also will lead the 4-H STEM program priority team and work in partnership with the ISU School of Education.
Nelson comes to the position with extensive experience in education. This experience includes working as an educator for the Science Center of Iowa, a first and third grade teacher for Boone Community School District, an instructor for science and literacy methods courses with the ISU School of Education and as the interim STEM specialist for the Iowa 4-H Youth Development Program. In these positions, Nelson worked to provide high-quality, research-based learning events to engage, connect and respond to youth needs.
She received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Luther College, a master’s in education from Iowa State University and a doctorate in education from Iowa State University. In addition, Nelson has more than 20 years of experience in STEM curriculum development that includes collaborations with international publishing companies, school districts and nonprofit groups.
“I am looking forward to collaborating with the Iowa 4-H STEM team and the ISU School of Education to support and advance STEM education for all Iowa youth,” Nelson said.