Through Her Eyes-Mentoring STEAM Activity (May 10, 2025)

The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc., Greater Cleveland Chapter (NCBW-GCC) hosted a Through Her Eyes Mentoring STEAM Activity at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History Planetarium on May 10, 2025. The program offered mentees an engaging and educational experience exploring astronomy and the science behind the Earth’s place in the cosmic constellation.

Participants attended a live planetarium show that revealed the wonders of our universe—thousands of stars, planets, and constellations—while gaining insight into the vital role of museum astronomers. The activity also provided hands-on exposure to astronomy technology, including training on the Digistar 7 Software and the Command Console used during star shows.

Lead astronomers Monica Marshall and Destiny Thomas guided the mentees through interactive learning sessions, encouraging curiosity about science and future careers in STEM. Ms. Thomas also serves as the 2024 She Leads100 Greater Cleveland honoree.

Participants:
Olivia Clinton • Shaniya Campbell-McKnight • Morgan Moore • Danielle Rivers • Olivia Tidmore • Allison White

Participants Learned:

• The role of museum astronomers

• The history of constellations and celestial formations

• How lunar surface planetarium shows are developed and presented

• Hands-on use of Digistar 7 Software for star show creation

• Command Console operation and collaboration with presenting astronomers

This enriching experience strengthened the mentees’ interest in science and technology while highlighting the importance of representation in STEAM fields. Through this program, NCBW-GCC continues to inspire the next generation of innovators to reach for the stars—literally and figuratively.