For the first time, BASF TOTAL Petrochemicals LLC sponsored the You Be The Chemist Challenge (YBTC) at Thomas Jefferson Middle School in Port Arthur. The challenge, developed by the Chemical Educational Foundation (CEF), is a question and answer competition that allows students to test their knowledge of chemistry concepts as they compete to represent their state on a national level. Fourteen local students had the opportunity to compete for scholarships and display their interest in chemistry and other scientific fields on Saturday, February 27.

“In 2016, we began a new partnership to offer exciting challenges to the students of Thomas Jefferson Middle School,” said Sarah Ramirtha, BASF Reliability Engineer and member of the African American Employee Group (AAEG) at BASF TOTAL Petrochemicals. “We want to introduce STEM education and careers to the next generation of chemists and scientists.”

YBTC is one of numerous activities BASF TOTAL Petrochemicals sponsors throughout the year to encourage science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and careers. BASF TOTAL Petrochemicals understands the importance of engaging students in science education at an early age, realizing that today’s students will be the thinkers, innovators and leaders of the future. 

“At Thomas Jefferson Middle School, we are always looking to expand our top-tier STEM programming and opportunities for our students,” said Taunjaerina Drake, Instructional Coach at the school. “Partnering with BASF TOTAL Petrochemicals, we can enhance our offerings while also building an even stronger connection with one of our local corporate partners.”