Local students learn the sports-science connection at Summer Science Institute

Greene Scholars Program will ignite students' interest in science through sports at Texas Instruments' Santa Clara site June 17-21

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Texas Instruments

Jun 12, 2013, 07:34 ET

SANTA CLARA, Calif., June 12, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Local African-American elementary and middle school students will attend a Summer Science Institute to explore the science behind sports firsthand June 17-21 at Texas Instruments (TI) (NASDAQ: TXN) in Santa Clara.

TI is partnering with the Dr. Frank S. Greene Scholars Program to offer the annual, hands-on learning event to create excitement about science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) among these 60 high-achieving, 8- to 14-year old African-American scholars.

Throughout the week the students will work directly with a team of TI engineers who volunteer their time and ideas for activities that explore innovation, product development and sports science. In this collaborative team environment, the students will conceptualize and develop their own innovative projects and present what they learned at week's end. Hands-on activities, including testing pedometers and examining sport-related products, will demonstrate concepts learned. In addition to the interactive workshops, the students will see demonstrations of TI technology enabling fitness innovations and participate in a "sports science challenge."

"Supporting STEM education is a top priority for TI, because we know that most students need solid math and science skills for career success," said Dave Heacock, senior vice president and manager of TI's Silicon Valley Analog. "We're thrilled to host these talented students from the Greene Scholars Program and hope to fuel interest in science and engineering in what may well be our next generation of innovators."

Employees at the Santa Clara site have partnered with the Greene Scholars Program for more than a decade. This year, the planning team incorporated a sports science theme into the Summer Science Institute experience.

"Students are fascinated by science and innovation when they can actively participate in discovery. Throughout the week, our students will examine several relevant physical, biological and mathematical principles associated with sports," said Gloria Whitaker-Daniels, program director of the Greene Scholars Program. "This unique opportunity for students to work alongside TI's best and brightest engineers will not only motivate and challenge our scholars, but will also deepen their understanding in how advancements in science and technology are relevant in sports.

Dr. Frank S. Greene Scholars students apply and are selected based on a demonstrated interest and aptitude for STEM. Scholars and their parents participate in monthly meetings and year-round educational sessions that focus on STEM enrichment, character development, academic planning, and college and career planning.

About The Dr. Frank S. Greene Scholars Program

The Dr. Frank S. Greene Scholars Program is sponsored by the California Alliance of African American Educators and is a long-term initiative that promotes the development of a community of college-bound Scholars focused on extending their academic gifts in science and math. The program's purpose is to increase the number of African American youth choosing STEM career paths through high school, college and into their professional lives. Additional information is available at www.greenescholars.org.

About Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) is a global semiconductor design and manufacturing company that develops analog ICs and embedded processors. By employing the world's brightest minds, TI creates innovations that shape the future of technology. TI is helping more than 100,000 customers transform the future, today. Learn more at www.ti.com.

SOURCE Texas Instruments