ATSU’s McGrew selected for Society for Science’s 2026-2027 Advocate Program
Posted: October 5, 2026
Stephanie McGrew, DHSc, MPH, MHA, ’25, director, Diversity & Inclusion, and Dreamline Pathways program manager, has been selected for Society for Science’s 2026–2027 Advocate Program, a national initiative that supports educators mentoring students as they conduct original scientific research and participate in science competitions.
Dr. McGrew will receive a $3,000 stipend, part of the program’s $326,000 total investment.
“I’m incredibly honored to be selected as an advocate with the Society for Science, and I am excited to expand the impact of STEM access through my work with Dreamline Pathways at A.T. Still University of Health Sciences,” Dr. McGrew said. “This opportunity allows me to further connect students, especially those from underserved communities, to meaningful, hands-on learning experiences and mentorship that build confidence and expand their vision of career opportunities in STEM and healthcare.”
This year’s cohort includes 13 lead advocates and 87 advocates nationwide. Since launching, the program has supported 439 educators and more than 9,100 students, who’ve submitted over 12,000 entries to STEM competitions.
Society for Science is a nationally recognized leader in STEM education. Through professional development, stipends and year-round support, the program empowers educators to help students pursue original research opportunities and participate in science competitions, helping them build confidence, strengthen critical thinking skills and discover new pathways into science and engineering.
“The most powerful way to expand opportunity for young people is to invest in the educators who recognize their potential and help turn their curiosity into discovery,” said Maya Ajmera, president and CEO of Society for Science and executive publisher of Science News. “Congratulations to our 2026–2027 Advocates. Together, they will strengthen STEM education, share innovative approaches and open doors for more students to see themselves – and thrive – as the scientists, engineers and innovators of tomorrow.”
The Advocate Program recognizes the essential role educators play in helping students move from pursuing independent research to sharing their work in competitions, including the Regeneron Science Talent Search, the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair and the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge. Advocates guide students through the process, helping them identify appropriate competitions, navigate application requirements, meet important deadlines and communicate their research effectively. Along the way, students strengthen their scientific reasoning, communication and problem-solving skills while gaining valuable experience that can open doors to future educational and career opportunities inside and outside the STEM pipeline.
Earlier this summer, the new cohort gathered in Washington for the Society’s annual Advocate Training Institute, an immersive professional development experience designed to prepare educators for the year ahead. Through hands-on workshops and interactive sessions, participants explored topics ranging from accessible astronomy research using NASA archival data to building community partnerships that expand research opportunities for students exploring ways to connect students with competitions such as the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge. The institute also gave educators practical strategies, resources and inspiration they can bring back to their schools and communities throughout the year.