About

WE’RE ON A MISSION TO INCREASE PARTICIPATION IN THE STEM WORKFORCE

According to data published by the Maryland Public Schools Report Card, in 2023 less than 1 out of 10 African American students in Baltimore City were considered proficient in mathematics and science. In most districts in Maryland African American students were ranked last or second to last in rates of math and science proficiency. The lack of math and science proficiency and other factors have contributed to a cycle of under representation in the STEM workforce. The Pew Research Center performed analysis of data captured between 2017 and 2019 by the American Community Survey (IPUMS)and found that African Americans aged 25 and older had the lowest participation rate in many STEM career categories. Unfortunately, the data is not much better for Hispanics and other minority populations in the Baltimore Metropolitan area.

If we do nothing these disparities will continue to persist.

BLACK SONs IS LEADING THE CHARGE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF UNDER REPRESENTED STEM PROFESSIONALS

Thus far Black SONs has provided more than 800 K-12 students and families with STEM kits, and quality STEM exposure. Student participants were able to interact with STEM professionals from NASA, Department of Defense (DoD), NuScale, BGE, Giant Pharmacy, Northrop Grumman, BITHGROUP Technologies and UMBC. Generous donations from supporters of Black SONs, its Board of Directors, and sponsorship from M&T Bank, Wegmans, Chick Fil A, Legacy Awards and Recognition and Dream Team Events enabled Black SONs to provide its STEM outreach at no cost to participants. 100% of survey respondents stated that the Black SONs STEM events provided a clear understanding of the importance of STEM education for their child’s future. 100% of survey respondents stated that they highly recommend Black SONs STEM events.

Mission Statement

Black SONs is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to improving math and science proficiency, STEM exposure,

STEM education and STEM workforce representation within under represented communities.

Vision

Black SONs works to ensure that all students regardless of background, income or zip code can benefit from

early STEM exposure resulting in a robust pipeline of STEM professionals.