2025 Agenda
STUDENT ARRIVALS & REGISTRATION
Welcome to D.C. Check in to your hotel and grab your welcome pack. Information on sessions and resources will be available once you're settled in.
Exact location will be provided to National STEM Champions and their families only.
CAPITOL HILL VISITS in partnership with CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGE
Meet with elected officials for a photo opportunity at their offices, with shuttles departing from the hotel.
For National STEM Champions only.
ICE CREAM SOCIAL presented by BROADCOM FOUNDATION
National STEM Champions are invited to mix and mingle with their fellow champions and 2024 Festival Alumni at this students-only event.
Location will be provided to invitees only.
SCIENCE IS COOL UNCONFERENCES presents: STEM Fairs are Cool by POCKETLAB
Broadcasting live from the VIP EXPO, this virtual event highlights student-led innovations and projects from the 2025 National STEM Festival, followed by a live Q&A session.
VIP & MEDIA EXPO presented by NOKIA
Featuring more than 100 of the nation’s brightest young minds and their pioneering solutions, this event officially kicks off the 2025 Festival, bringing together C-level executives, industry leaders, top scientists, media, and elected officials.
Light lunch provided. Location will be provided to invitees only.
FUTURE FORWARD
A mini-conference for senior and C-level executives, industry leaders, and scientists, featuring flash talks on breakthrough ideas, and “The Big Idea,” a 30-minute conversation followed by a Q&A.
Invitation only. Location will be provided to invitees only.
NETWORKING HAPPY HOUR presented by BUILDWITHIN and DEPT. OF EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
Engage with senior and C-level executives, philanthropic leaders, media, and K-20 educators. This event offers a unique opportunity to build valuable connections and foster collaboration across diverse sectors.
Invitation only. Location to be announced.
PIZZA & GAMES NIGHT
Hosted by George Mason University, this event offers an evening of food, fun, and networking exclusively for National STEM Champions. Students will have the opportunity to explore a variety of college, university, and scholarship programs, with participation from the D.C. Army National Guard, Methodist University, and Santa Clara University.
For National STEM Champions only.
VIP & EXECUTIVE STEM WEEK DINNER
An exclusive, invitation-only dinner co-hosted by renowned chef and UN World Food Programme Ambassador Andrew Zimmern, bringing together C-level executives, top supporters, and industry leaders to celebrate innovation and leadership.
Location to be announced.
MENTOR SESSION #1
Hosted by George Washington University College of Professional Studies, this event features group mentor sessions connecting students with senior corporate leaders and federal agency SMEs. Students will present innovative projects, while leaders and experts share experiences, fostering dialogue and potential new ideas.
For Invited Distinguished Guests and Student Champions.
MENTOR SESSION #2
Hosted by George Washington University College of Professional Studies, this event features group mentor sessions connecting students with senior corporate leaders and federal agency SMEs. Students will present innovative projects, while leaders and experts share experiences, fostering dialogue and potential new ideas.
For Invited Distinguished Guests and Student Champions.
LUNCH & LEARN
Hosted by George Washington University College of Professional Studies, this event features group mentor sessions connecting students with senior corporate leaders and federal agency SMEs. Students will present innovative projects, while leaders and experts share experiences, fostering dialogue and potential new ideas.
For Invited Distinguished Guests and Student Champions.
FIELD TRIP! presented by EF TOURS
A D.C. Moments tour offering National STEM Champions an opportunity to explore iconic landmarks and gain insights into the nation's rich history and scientific achievements.
For National STEM Champions only.
PUBLIC EXPO & STUDENT SHOWCASE
Members of the public are invited to experience 20 hands-on STEM activities with free timed entry and exciting giveaways. This event will feature more than 100 of the nation’s brightest young minds presenting their pioneering solutions. Recommended for ages 8 and up.
Location to be announced. Ticket reservations open in Jan. 2025.
2025 FESTIVAL LIVESTREAM
Broadcasting live from the Festival EXPO, featuring student innovators, experts, and renowned STEM communicators.
CLOSING NIGHT PARTY
A celebration of student innovation with food, games, DJs, dancing, and surprises at an iconic DC venue!
Invitation only. Location will be provided to invitees only.
note: schedule is in development and subject to changes and additions.