STEM Education & Closing Opportunity Gaps: Kevin Harrell on Access and Equity
By Lana Reid | May 10, 2023
As part of the Black Men Matter Series, Lana Reid sits down with Kevin Harrell, Vice President of Education at The Challenger Center, to discuss STEM education, equity, and closing opportunity gaps for students. Kevin shares how access to hands-on learning environments, educator support, and family engagement are critical to preparing students for future careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. The conversation centers on equity, innovation, and long-term student success.
In this episode of The Male Perspective, Kevin Harrell offers a comprehensive look at how STEM education can expand opportunity and transform student outcomes.
Kevin explains how experiential STEM learning environments help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and confidence. He discusses why exposure to real-world STEM applications is essential for helping students see themselves in future careers they may not otherwise consider.
Throughout the conversation, Lana Reid and Kevin explore the role of educators and families in supporting STEM engagement. Kevin emphasizes that closing opportunity gaps requires collaboration between schools, educators, caregivers, and community organizations. He shares how intentional support systems help students stay engaged, curious, and prepared for academic and career pathways.
The discussion also highlights equity and access. Kevin reflects on how systemic barriers limit STEM opportunities for many students and why targeted programs are necessary to ensure all learners have access to high-quality STEM education. He underscores that innovation in education must be paired with equity to create sustainable, long-term impact.
This episode reinforces the importance of access, support, and innovation in preparing students for the future workforce and closing persistent educational gaps.
About the Guest
Kevin Harrell is the Vice President of Education at The Challenger Center, where he leads initiatives focused on STEM education, educator support, and student engagement. His work centers on expanding access to hands-on STEM learning and preparing students for future academic and career success.
For more information on Kevin Harrell & the Challenger Center:
https://www.challenger.org/
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About the Series
This episode is part of the Black Men Matter Series, highlighting Black men who are educators, leaders, and advocates working to expand access to education, opportunity, and innovation for future generations.
About the Host & Organization
The Male Perspective is hosted by Lana Reid, founder of Conversations in Color, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) grassroots organization dedicated to providing uplifting and community-building spaces of dialogue for Black voices.
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