đĄ How can we design chemistry outreach that sparks long-term curiosity, not just a one-off slime demo?
Today on the Science with Impact Podcast, Ayanna Lynch, an early-career chemistry communicator who manages national outreach programs at the American Chemical Society, reveals practical frameworks for making STEM events accessible, measurable, and community-driven.
Who is this for?
K-12 educators seeking engaging, low-barrier chemistry activities
University researchers aiming to broaden the societal impact of their work
Science-communication professionals refining assessment strategies
Nonprofits and museums building community partnerships around STEM
What's it about?
Ayannaâs journey from chemistry/art-history double major to Getty Museum conservation intern to ACS outreach coordinator
Building âchoose-your-own-adventureâ activities that tap multiple senses and learning styles
Crafting surveys and school partnerships to measure informal-learning impact
Leveraging local industry (agriculture, mining, etc.) for authentic, place-based chemistry events
Using personal storytelling and online âday-in-the-lifeâ content to diversify STEM career narratives
đ Key Takeaway: Meeting communities where they areâand letting participants guide the experimentâ transforms chemistry from a distant subject into a personal, lasting discovery.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction to Chemistry's Impact
00:38 The Importance of Collaboration in Science
00:54 Meet Ayana Lynch
01:21 Personal Impact of Science
02:12 Applying Scientific Mindset in Daily Life
04:43 Engaging the Public with Science
06:34 The Fusion of Art and Science
07:19 Hands-On Science Communication
10:00 Measuring Engagement and Accessibility
23:01 Building Community Partnerships
26:18 Storytelling in Science
28:40 Day-to-Day Life of a Science Program Manager
29:34 Final Thoughts and Future Questions
Guest:
Ayanna Lynch |Early-career chemistry communicator; Program Coordinator, American Chemical Society Outreach
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayanna-l-5ab393101/
Host:
Iâm â Vanessa Rosa, Ph.Dâ ., founder of â Science with Impactâ , where we partner with scientists to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact through evidence-based, question-led, and person-centered science communication.
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