Annual Dinner With a Scientist Event Empowers Youth

Calaveras, CA– Calaveras and Amador County students, alongside their teachers, gathered for an evening of discovery at the annual Dinner With a Scientist event, held at the Mark Twain Hall at the Calaveras County Fairgrounds. This year’s event drew 134 students from 15 schools and 43 teachers, creating a space where curiosity met expertise.

Thirty-four volunteer scientists participated, sharing their career journeys and expertise in fields ranging from aerospace and forensics to veterinary medicine and hydrography. Students rotated through interactive stations, spending 20 minutes with each scientist to learn about their career paths, college experiences, and specialized knowledge.

“The goal is to broaden students’ scientific interests and showcase diverse career opportunities,” said Debbie Strand, Communications and Student Event Coordinator for the Calaveras County Office of Education (CCOE).

A highlight of the night was keynote speaker Shannon Ayers from Lawrence Livermore Laboratory, whose engaging talk fueled students’ passion for scientific pursuits. A new addition this year included Columbia College’s “Mad Scientist Collective,” whose members conducted live biology experiments, providing hands-on experiences at two stations.

Bret Harte High School leadership students and over 23 volunteers contributed their time to support the event’s logistics.