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Eberly College of Arts & Sciences C. Eugene Bennett Department of Chemistry
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Chemistry Outreach and Engagement

The C. Eugene Bennett Department of Chemistry at West Virginia University is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of chemists through meaningful, hands-on experiences.

Engaging demonstrations and immersive laboratory activities involve students both on and off campus, sparking curiosity in West Virginia K-12 students.

420+
K-12 students engaged in chemistry activities each year
13
Outreach events held this past year

Upcoming Outreach Events 

No events are currently scheduled.

Overview of Outreach Activities

Young boys blow colored bubbles

Children's Chemistry Show

Held annually on the first or second Saturday in December

Get ready for a spectacular celebration of science at the Chemistry Faraday’s Show! This beloved annual event features a colorful, eye-opening chemistry demonstration show followed by hands-on science activities designed to amaze, inspire, and delight children and the grown-ups who bring them.

Free and open to everyone ages 5 to 120, the show is the perfect family outing filled with discovery, laughter, and unforgettable “wow” moments.

Inspired by the historic Faraday Christmas Lectures first presented in 1825 by Michael Faraday, the event celebrates the spirit of curiosity and discovery through lively chemical demonstrations that bring science to life. Michael Faraday was one of the great intellectual giants of chemistry and physics. He believed in teaching science to young people and started the Lecture Series in 1825 as a way to generate enthusiasm for science. 

Check the Chemistry Department Calendar for details.

Boyscouts sitting at a chemistry table working on an experiment

Chemistry Merit Badge

Held annually in late February to early March

Each year, WVU chemistry faculty, students, and staff partner with Merit Badge University to offer Scouts the opportunity to earn the Chemistry Merit Badge.  This immersive experience invites Scouts into WVU’s teaching and research laboratories, where they explore chemistry through supervised, hands-on experiments.

Scouts dive into fascinating topics such as: 

  • Using red cabbage as a natural pH indicator
  • Understanding how alcohol kills viruses and bacteria
  • Uncovering the chemistry behind how soaps clean and protect us

Scouts also tour an active research laboratory, where they meet a professional chemist and learn how chemical research is conducted and why it matters. This engaging program combines discovery, experimentation, and mentorship—bringing chemistry to life in an exciting university setting.

For more information, contact Chemistry@mail.wvu.edu or call (304) 293-3435.

A welcome kit with tie dye balloon, composition notebook, pencil and other items.

Middle and High school Outreach

In-person or virtual sessions designed to inspire students

The Chemistry Department connect with middle and high school students across West Virginia and beyond through engaging outreach experiences designed to spark curiosity in chemistry and STEM. Programs may be conducted in person or via Zoom, depending on availability.

Middle School Experiences

Hands-on activities using familiar materials, including:

  • Exploring the chemistry of diapers
  • Separating colors through paper chromatography of marker ink

High School Experiences

  • STEM pathway presentations (high school vs. college coursework)
  • Career exploration in chemistry and related fields
  • Encouragement toward college attendance and STEM majors
  • Peer perspectives from undergraduate and graduate students

To schedule a visit or session contact Michelle Richards Babb at mrichar2@wvu.edu

Student wearing chemistry apron, googles and gloves pours a chemical out of an auburn glass jar.

Governor’s Honors Academy (GHA)

Hosted at WVU (Summer 2025–2027)

The West Virginia Governor’s Honors Academy (GHA) offers outstanding high school students a transformative, immersive academic experience. Dr. Michelle Richards Babb serves as GHA Associate Dean (2025–2027), helping connect scholars with enriching opportunities across disciplines.

In 2025, students explored:

  • The Chemistry of Fireworks and Fluorescence
  • An electrifying Chemistry Demonstration Show
  • Interdisciplinary courses ranging from physics and astronomy to creative writing and sustainability

The 2026 program will be held July 11–25, 2026. High school juniors at the time of application are eligible.

Young boy and girl working on a science activity

West Virginia Science Public Outreach Team (WV SPOT)

University students engaging K-12 students in STEM activities

Dr. Odeleye serves as WVU’s faculty liaison for the WV Science Public Outreach Team (WV SPOT)

SPOT recruits and trains university student ambassadors to deliver standards-based science, technology, and engineering presentations to K-12 classrooms, museums, and youth programs throughout West Virginia.

Educators can request presentations and hands-on activities online at WV SPOT for Educators.

Chemistry students interested in serving as ambassadors are encouraged to contact Dr. Odeleye directly.