09/08/2026
Science came to life across Radford University’s Artis College of Science and Technology on Friday, Sept. 4, as students, faculty, staff and visitors explored hands-on activities and demonstrations during Science Expo 2026.
Held from 2-4 p.m., the sixth annual Science Expo was the largest in the event’s history, providing visitors with an opportunity to discover the many programs, disciplines and experiences available through the Artis College.
The planetarium, Museum of the Earth Sciences and greenhouse were all open during the event, while faculty, staff and students from departments and programs throughout the college offered interactive demonstrations and activities. Visitors could explore science through hands-on experiences while learning more about the people, programs and facilities that make STEM education at Radford distinctive.
"It gives students across campus the chance to visit the Artis College building and all its features, like the greenhouse and planetarium” stated Dr. Kristina Stefaniak, Associate Professor of Chemistry at Radford University who also led the organizing committee. “The best part is that every major in the college is showcased with different activities like flint knapping, drones, glassblowing, and salamander trading cards."
The attendance was the highest yet.
Organizers distributed 400 bingo cards, with even more visitors participating in the event. Of those cards, 270 were returned for prizes and extra credit — the highest number recorded for Science Expo. Ninety-four participants completed all 18 booths and activities, demonstrating the enthusiasm of visitors to experience everything the expo had to offer.
And no science celebration would be complete without a treat. Approximately 300 liquid nitrogen cooled ice cream cones were served during the afternoon.
Beyond the numbers, the event offered a snapshot of the wide range of STEM opportunities within the Artis College. Visitors were able to see how classroom learning, research and hands-on discovery come together at Radford.
Science Expo also provided an opportunity for the Artis College community to connect with one another and introduce prospective students and visitors to the possibilities available through STEM education.
The success of Science Expo 2026 was made possible through the work of many faculty and staff led by the event’s organizing committee: Kristina Stefaniak, Chet Bhatta, Melissa DeBiasse, Stephanie Huckestein, Sarah Kennedy, Sandy Liss, Stockton Maxwell and Tara Pelletier.
Organizers also expressed their appreciation to RISE and the Artis College of Science and Technology for their support.
As its sixth annual celebration continues to grow, Science Expo demonstrates the excitement that comes from putting science, technology, engineering and mathematics directly into the hands of students and the broader Radford community.
