Fresh water is one of Earth’s most precious resources, but also one of its most scarce. Water covers two-thirds of our planet, but fresh water accounts for only one percent of that total, making it a critical resource to conserve for future generations. Axalta Coating Systems recently partnered with Stroud Water Research Center to host the Serviam Girls Academy, a tuition-free, independent middle school serving girls in grades five through eight, for a day of learning focused on freshwater conservation at Stroud’s headquarters in Avondale, Pennsylvania.

During the program, the girls donned wading boots and got hands-on with stream life, collecting water samples and bugs to test the stream’s health. Stroud scientists led the girls in experiments and taught them the indicators of a healthy stream.

“We were excited to host the young ladies, guide them through activities to assess the health of the stream, and inspire them to consider STEM disciplines as a career,” said Dr. Steve Kerlin, Stroud Director of Education. “During their visit they participated in many new experiences including water chemistry testing, collecting and identifying macroinvertebrates from the stream for a bio assessment, stream habitat assessment, and a tour of our LEED Platinum building and some of the laboratories.”

Axalta is committed to helping the next generation pursue careers in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. While more women are entering STEM fields than ever before, Axalta continues to engage in the enlightenment of future generations and their exposure to STEM education.

“Our partnership with Axalta has brought many wonderful gifts to Serviam Girls Academy,” said Peggy Hines, Serviam Girls Academy President. “The field trip to Stroud Water Research Center provided a wonderful opportunity to immerse our students into nature to learn about the world that supports them, and the importance of taking care of it. The girls had a blast as they gathered insects and tested the health of White Clay Creek.”

Serviam Academy eighth grader and participant, Paige Ponzo commented, “I liked learning about the tests that are conducted on water to measure the health of the stream, and I liked doing the tests ourselves.”