WAU Showcases Commitment to Education Through Hands-On Science Experiences for Adventist Academy Students

Takoma Park, Md. — In the spring of 2025, Washington Adventist University (WAU) reaffirmed its commitment to fostering curiosity, academic excellence, and career exploration by opening its doors to young minds eager to explore the world of science. The Department of Biology and Chemistry partnered with two local Seventh-day Adventist schools—Atholton Adventist Academy and Frederick Adventist Academy—to offer engaging, hands-on science experiences designed to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators.

On March 25, WAU hosted 9th and 10th-grade students from Atholton Adventist Academy for an immersive day of learning. Students participated in interactive lab sessions where they studied Caenorhabditis elegans, a microscopic nematode commonly used in biomedical research, and practiced gram staining, a fundamental technique used to classify bacteria and inform medical treatment. These activities provided students with a glimpse into the real-world applications of biological and chemical research.

Following the lab sessions, the visiting students enjoyed lunch in WAU’s Dining Hall and were treated to a guided tour of the campus, led by a student ambassador from the Office of Admissions. The day concluded with departmental presentations from Music, Honors, and Biology and Chemistry—showcasing WAU’s interdisciplinary approach to education and its welcoming academic community.

A week later, on April 2, WAU hosted 7th and 8th-grade students from Frederick Adventist Academy for an equally exciting day. In the biology lab, students revisited the study of C. elegans and observed pill bugs to understand how ecosystems respond to environmental changes. In the chemistry lab, they created “elephant toothpaste,” a popular demonstration of exothermic reactions. Meanwhile, in the computer science lab, students tackled basic coding challenges, gaining valuable exposure to digital problem-solving.

These initiatives reflect WAU’s mission of preparing students for lives of service through excellence in teaching and learning. By connecting classroom theory with hands-on experiences, WAU continues to show that it cares deeply about education—not only for its own students but for the broader Adventist educational community.

Schools or organizations interested in partnering with Washington Adventist University for future STEM visits or educational collaborations are encouraged to contact Dr. Melinda Villanueva, Chair of the Department of Biology and Chemistry, at mvillanu@wau.edu or call 301-891-4200.