The PPG Industries Foundation recently donated $10,000 to Bowling Green State University (BGSU) in Bowling Green, Ohio, to support the Northwest Ohio Center for Excellence in STEM Education (NWO) “STEM in the Park” event. The grant was made on behalf of PPG Industries’ architectural coatings plant in nearby Huron.

“We appreciate the PPG Industries Foundation’s support for our efforts to inspire the next generation’s pursuit of education and careers related to science and technology through STEM in the Park,” said Emilio Duran, founder and director of STEM in the Park. “For six years, our free and family-focused event has offered a variety of opportunities for children of all ages to engage in fun activities that teach science, technology, engineering and math concepts while they entertain, and we look forward to having PPG’s support in 2016.”

Scheduled for Sept. 24 on the BGSU campus, the next STEM in the Park event will feature interactive displays and hands-on science- and technology-related activities such as giant bubbles, edible DNA, and demonstrations by the Toledo Zoo and Imagination Station. In addition to participating in inquiry-based learning fun created by area universities, community partners and local businesses, attendees can meet teachers, university faculty and community resource providers to explore science and technology careers.

“Engaging in the communities where we live and work is part of PPG’s heritage,” said Dave Kuhn, plant manager at the PPG Architectural Coatings facility in Huron. “Events such as STEM in the Park help to not only educate but also excite future manufacturers and innovators. It’s a great fit for PPG and our foundation.”

The PPG Industries Foundation aims to create brighter, more colorful communities where PPG has a presence in the United States. By investing in educational opportunities, we help grow today’s skilled workforce and develop tomorrow’s innovators in industries related to coatings and specialty materials. Plus, we empower PPG employees to make an impact for causes that are important to them by supporting their volunteer efforts and charitable giving. Learn more at www.ppgcommunities.com.