LCCC Receives Grant from PPL Foundation for STEAM Creative Makerspace

Lehigh Carbon Community College’s Design Den creative makerspace has received a $1,000 grant from the PPL Foundation. Funds will support the facility, which will provide hands-on learning opportunities to LCCC students in the Teacher Education degree programs as well as professional development opportunities to classroom K-12 teachers in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM).

Located on the college’s main campus in Schnecksville, the Design Den follows the model created by the college’s SHINE (Schools and Homes in Education) after-school program that includes project-based learning involving collaboration, creativity and technology. Beginning this fall, the space will teach students in Teacher Education classes how to integrate STEAM principles into lesson plans and curricula and will promote professional development for LCCC Education faculty.

The Makerspace will be a resource for school districts, area schools, colleges and universities and other community partners. It will also serve as a hub for STEAM-related summer camps, after school programs, Saturday programs and field trips for area school children.

The PPL Foundation awards grants through an annual competitive application and review process.

For additional information on the Design Den, contact Dr. Kelly Trahan, Dean of Education, Computer Science and Online Learning, at ktrahan@lccc.edu.