PHOENIX, Ariz., -- Former U.S. Astronaut Bernard Harris gave students and teachers in Phoenix a first-hand experience with the wonders of science, technology, engineering and mathematics when "The Dream Tour, presented by ExxonMobil" made its fourth stop of 2010 on May 7 speaking to 700 students from Bethune, Dunbar, Edison, Faith North, Lowell and University Public School in Phoenix Elementary School District #1.
The tour is designed to encourage today's middle school students to realize their potential and strive to acquire strong math and science skills. The program included an interactive and inspirational program by Harris, a demonstration on space and engaging dialogue about achieving goals.
"It is critical that American students are prepared with the problem-solving skills and tools to tackle challenges they may face in the future. Providing them with a strong foundation in math and science education is imperative, and with The Dream Tour, I hope to inspire students to pursue studies and careers in these fields," said Dr. Harris.
From humble beginnings in San Antonio to making history as the first African American to walk in space, Dr. Harris is a living example of achieving high aspirations. His story provides a powerful backdrop to bring his message to students in cities across America. Since 2008, Dr. Harris has encouraged almost 35,000 middle school students in more than 20 cities nationwide. This year, The Dream Tour will visit Anchorage, Baton Rouge, Billings, Cleveland, Denver, Nashville, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Diego and San Francisco as Dr. Harris continues to motivate and inspire students to pursue math and science.
"ExxonMobil is focused on the need to attract more of America's students to higher level math and science courses in secondary school. The classes they choose today can make or break their options for the future, and 'The Dream Tour, presented by ExxonMobil,' is one way to expose them to the possibilities," said Gerald McElvy, President, ExxonMobil Foundation.
For more information about The Dream Tour or Dr. Harris, please visitwww.daring2dream.org.
About ExxonMobil Foundation
ExxonMobil Foundation is the primary philanthropic arm of the Exxon Mobil Corporation in the United States. The Foundation and the Corporation engage in a range of philanthropic activities that advance education, health and science in the communities where ExxonMobil has significant operations. In the United States, ExxonMobil supports initiatives to improve math and science education at the K-12 and higher education levels.
Globally, ExxonMobil provides funding to improve basic education and combat malaria and other infectious diseases in developing countries. In 2009, together with its employees and retirees, Exxon Mobil Corporation, its divisions and affiliates, and ExxonMobil Foundation provided $235 million in contributions worldwide, of which more than $98 million was dedicated to education. Additional information on ExxonMobil's community partnerships and contributions programs is available atwww.exxonmobil.com/community.
About The Harris Foundation
Founded in 1998, The Harris Foundation is a 501 (c) (3), non-profit organization based in Houston, Texas, whose overall mission is to invest in community-based initiatives to support education, health and wealth. The foundation supports programs that empower individuals, in particular minorities and economically and/or socially disadvantaged, to recognize their potential and pursue their dreams. The Education Mission of the Harris Foundation is to enable youth to develop and achieve their full potential through the support of social, recreational, and educational programs. The foundation encourages math and science education, motivates youth to stay in school, fosters youth leadership and citizenship, as well as instills the values of responsibility, fairness and respect.
The Harris Foundation believes that students can be prepared now for the careers of the future through a structured education program and the use of positive role models. More than 10,000 K-12 students participate and benefit from THF programs annually.www.theharrisfoundation.org
About Phoenix Elementary School District #1
Serving preschool through eighth grade students since 1871, Phoenix Elementary School District #1 is steeped in heritage and tradition and located in the heart of downtown Phoenix. The District offers a breadth of special programs and curriculum and is dedicated to the total development of every student by setting high expectations and fostering academic leadership. The District's fourteen Signature and Community Schools provide safe and secure learning environments with unique themes and free programs including -- Montessori, Traditional, Language Acquisition, Performing & Fine Arts, Donde Vivo, Before & After School Care & Enrichment and more. For more information please visit http://www.phxschools.org or call 602.257.3755.
SOURCE: ExxonMobil Foundation
for ExxonMobil Foundation Jillian Fleming, 214-373-1601
