在 Challenger Learning Center at Montco Pottstown, children get to experience a world beyond their familiar neighborhoods. During the space missions, students assume various roles as astronauts or in mission control, working collaboratively to overcome outer space challenges and celebrate 他们的成就.

Seeing students so fully engrossed in exploring the universe inspired one Pottstown couple to make this valuable STEM opportunity available for many Pottstown students.

Thanks to a generous gift to Montgomery County Community College’s 基金会, 威廉(比尔)爱荷华州, 3, 还有他的妻子, Lisa Carideo，爱荷华州, have ensured that all fifth through eighth-grade students in the Pottstown School District will have access to these enriching space missions for four years.

“It’s so exciting to see the students go through the different steps and procedures, takeoff in the rocket simulator and work at the different stations,” said Bill Lowa, when he visited the Challenger Learning Center. “It’s amazing to watch their expressions 和反应.” 

“This is an incredible opportunity for them,” added Lisa, who is a former teacher. “的 students are curious and focused. Every child is engaged in some capacity through the different roles they hold. It is very impressive to see.”

This transformative gift will have an indelible impact on numerous young minds, fueling their interest in science, technology, engineering and math as well as laying the foundation for pursuing higher education pathways at MCCC.

“I graduated from Montco in 1974, so it has a special place in my heart,” said Bill, who holds an associate’s degree in political science. “I served on the 基金会 Board for several years [1999-2008] and was the chair for 2007-2008.”

In April, MCCC’s 基金会 inducted Bill into the Dundore社会 in recognition of his commitment and support to the College and its mission. 的 Dundore社会 is named after Dwight A. Dundore, the first chair of the College’s 基金会 Board and one of the College’s first trustees.

In addition to his ties to Montco, Bill also has deep connections to the Pottstown 社区. He grew up in nearby Limerick and moved to Pottstown in 1981. In 1985, 他的保险业务， 爱荷华集团有限公司., opened and has served numerous 社区 members since that time.

“的 Pottstown 社区 has been very good to the business, and we’ve tried to give back over the years, supporting the July 4^th festival and other Borough efforts. Through this gift, I wanted to leave a legacy for the 社区,” he said.

“的 College is helping the 社区 to grow, and the Challenger Learning Center will help to draw more people. 的 location in the former PECO building is perfect next to the Pottstown Riverfront Park,” he added.

Challenger Learning Center at Montco Pottstown is the first of its kind in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, joining a network of Centers that have reached nearly 6 million children 世界各地. Since it opened in August 2022, nearly 7,500 children have participated in the hands-on missions. For more information, visit 网页.

For more details about making a gift, contact the Montgomery County Community College 基金会 at 215-641-6324 or foundation@westerlyspine.com.