Margo Bowerman has joined North Dakota State University Extension’s Center for 4-H Youth Development as the STEM specialist.

Bowerman will lead the North Dakota 4-H STEM program and the North Dakota Next Chapter program. 

Through the 4-H STEM program, youth gain competence in science and engineering practices that will enable them to tackle today’s science and engineering challenges as well as anticipate and address future science and engineering challenges. Bowerman will work with internal and external stakeholders of North Dakota 4-H to identify current and emerging needs related to STEM programs and develop 4-H programs to equip youth with the knowledge, skills and conviction to address those needs. 

The Next Chapter program is designed to inspire youth to continue their education after high school by engaging them in activities that build college and career readiness skills and explore career paths. Bowerman will work with the North Dakota State University admissions office and other units to offer this opportunity to schools across North Dakota.

“I’m excited to work alongside the outstanding North Dakota 4-H staff, volunteers and youth to deliver STEM programs to meet the needs of today’s global workforce and economy,” says Bowerman. “4-H serves a valuable role in today’s society by providing programs that support youth in developing a belief in their own capabilities and competence in science and engineering practices.”

Before joining NDSU, Bowerman worked as regional Extension educator for the University of Minnesota Extension’s Department of Youth Development. In this role she designed and implemented 4-H STEM programs in northwest Minnesota, while also serving as co-chair of the Minnesota 4-H state STEM team. Prior to her work in Minnesota, she was a 4-H educator and invasive species educator at Cornell Cooperative Extension in western New York. She also has conducted research on woodchucks at Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland.

Bowerman has a bachelor of science and a master’s degree from State University of New York, College of Environmental Science and Forestry.

“The state 4-H office is thrilled to welcome Margo to the team,” says Leigh Ann Skurupey, 4-H Youth Development Program assistant director. “We are all excited for her expertise to ignite innovation, empower our future leaders, and pave the way for all youth to explore their sparks and the endless possibilities with STEM.”

NDSU Agriculture Communication – May 16, 2024

Source: Leigh Ann Skurupey, 701-231-7253, leighann.skurupey@ndsu.edu

Contact: Margo Bowerman, 701-231-4263, margo.bowerman@ndsu.edu

Editor: Elizabeth Cronin, 701-231-7006, elizabeth.cronin@ndsu.edu