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Welcome and thank you for visiting The Wilson Foundation. At The Wilson Foundation, we are passionate about transforming the lives of young boys and girls from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education. The Wilson Foundation works to bridge the gap and create equal opportunities for youth through enriching experiences, mentorship, and resources in STEAM. We aim to empower these bright minds through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and unwavering support, unlocking their potential and inspiring a future where every child can thrive in STEAM. Join us on this journey of empowerment, education, and endless possibilities. We are “Empowering Futures, Bridging Dreams, and Igniting STEAM Excellence in Every Child.”

FOUNDATION'S HISTORY

The Wilson Foundation traces its origins to a deeply-rooted commitment to addressing disparities in educational opportunities and a profound belief in the transformative power of STEAM education by educators, Dr. Bobby L. Wilson and Mrs. Mary Ann Wilson.

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The Wilson Foundation was established by the daughters of Dr. and Mrs. Wilson, Dr. Melanie Wilson Lawson, Attorney Malissa Wilson, and Dr. Malinda Wilson Swoope [The Wilson Sisters], to honor their parents’ lifetime commitment to education by collaborating with communities, educators, and stakeholders to create impactful programs that address the unique challenges faced by disadvantaged youth. The Wilson Foundation’s establishment is driven by the belief that every child, regardless of their economic circumstances, should have the chance to explore, learn, and excel in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM).

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We hope that over the years, The Wilson Foundation will evolve into a dynamic organization, collaborating with communities, educators, and stakeholders to create impactful programs that address the unique challenges faced by disadvantaged youth. The foundation's story is one of resilience, determination, and a profound belief in the potential of every child to thrive with the right opportunities and support.

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THE FOUNDERS
 

Dr. Melanie Wilson Lawson

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Dr. Melanie Wilson-Lawson “Doc Mel”...started her career off as a science teacher for the Houston Independent School District in the early 1990’s. Then she switched gears to managing and conducting research for social and behavioral medicine projects at the University of Houston, before becoming a professor at Texas Southern University over 25 years ago. Being elected to represent Senate District 11 for the State of Texas as a 2008 National Delegate for the Democratic National Convention and serving on President Barack Obama’s Public Policy Committee and Regional Finance Committee are some of her most cherished achievements. She has served as an Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs and Student Services in the College of Continuing Education and Executive Director for the Office of Continuing Education at Texas Southern University. Doc Mel was the first African-American to receive a Ph.D. in Social Work from the University of Houston, Graduate School of Social Work in 2002. She earned a Masters in Public Health from the University of Texas Health Science Center, School of Public Health, and her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the historic Texas Southern University where she was the recipient of a 2011 Distinguished Alumni Award!

 

Attorney Malissa Wilson

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Malissa Wilson is a practicing attorney with more than 20 years of legal experience, who is listed in Best Lawyers in America®.  Malissa is a magna cum laude graduate from Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism.  She went on to obtain a Master of Science in Journalism from Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in New York City.  Following graduate school, she worked as a journalist before attending the University of Mississippi School of Law where she graduated cum laude in 2002. 

 

Dr. Malinda Wilson Swoope

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Dr. Malinda Wilson Swoope possesses more than two decades of experience as a strategic leader and chemist in higher education. Dr. Swoope has served as an Associate Professor of Chemistry, Special Assistant to the President for Strategic Planning and Special Initiatives, Associate Provost for Academic Affairs, and a Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. She holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Chemistry from Texas Southern University and earned her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) from the University of California at Davis. Dr. Swoope is dedicated to improving the opportunities and achievements of students from disadvantaged backgrounds and advocating for STEM education and careers. Her impressive track record includes securing over $5 million in grants from diverse agencies and organizations, along with the publication of over 30 peer-reviewed articles in her field.

Mission Statement

The Wilson Foundation is dedicated to transforming lives and breaking barriers by providing unparalleled opportunities in STEAM education for young people from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. Its mission is to nurture curiosity, inspire innovation, and foster a lifelong love for learning. Through strategic partnerships, mentorship programs, and accessible resources, it strives to empower these aspiring minds, unlocking their full potential and equipping them with the skills to thrive in the ever-evolving world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. We are “Empowering Futures, Bridging Dreams, and Igniting STEAM Excellence in Every Child.”

Goals

The specific goals include:

 

  1. Equitable Access to STEAM Education: Ensure that all children, regardless of their socioeconomic status, have equal access to high-quality STEAM education opportunities.

  2. Inspiring Curiosity and Innovation: Foster a love for learning and curiosity about STEAM subjects, inspiring children to explore, innovate, and develop critical thinking skills and a love for the arts.

  3. Mentorship and Support: Provide mentorship programs and support systems to guide and encourage disadvantaged youth, helping them navigate educational challenges and career pathways in STEAM.

  4. Community Engagement and Collaboration: Engage with communities, schools, and organizations to create collaborative initiatives that address the unique needs of the children we serve.

  5. Breaking Down Barriers: Identify and address barriers that hinder access to STEAM education, working towards a more inclusive and diverse representation in STEAM fields.

Values

Our core values include:

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  1. Empowerment: We empower young minds by fostering a supportive environment that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity, enabling them to reach their full potential.

  2. Innovation: We embrace innovation in our programs, curriculum, and outreach efforts, staying at the forefront of effective and inspiring STEAM education methods.

  3. Integrity: We uphold the highest ethical standards in all aspects of our work, ensuring transparency, accountability, and trust in our interactions with stakeholders and the public.

  4. Community Engagement: We engage with the communities we serve, valuing their insights and actively involving them in the decision-making processes that impact their children's education.

  5. Inspiration: We aim to inspire a lifelong love for learning, encouraging children to see the possibilities within STEAM fields and inspiring them to pursue their passions.

PROGRAMS AND INITIATIVES

1. Summer STEAM Camp

  • Organize annual summer camps focused on different STEAM disciplines.

  • Offer a mix of educational workshops, field trips to science museums or labs, team-based projects, theatrical plays, symphony, etc.

  • Provide scholarships for underprivileged youth to attend the camps.

 

2. Mentoring Program

  • Establish a program that connect individuals interested in STEAM fields with experienced professionals who can guide and inspire them.

  • Facilitate regular meetings, where mentors guide and inspire mentees in their STEAM interests and career aspirations.

 

3. Community STEAM Educational Outreach

  • Provide educational resources, workshops, and programs to schools, communities, and individuals to enhance their understanding and interest in STEAM subjects.

  • Conduct workshops for parents and caregivers to enhance their understanding of the importance of STEAM education.

  • Provide resources and guidance on how families can support STEAM learning at home.

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