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Washington MESA Celebrates 40 Years of Empowering STEM Leaders

A student panel. One student is speaking on the mike, others are clapping.
Student and Alumni Panelist (left to right) Brenda Obonyo, Kadance Butler, Arian Ariaye, Samaria Abraham.

On Saturday, May 17, 2025, the Washington Mathematics, Engineering, and Science Achievement (MESA) program celebrated its 40th anniversary with a vibrant event held at the University of Washington. The celebration brought together students, alumni, educators, industry and community leaders to honor four decades of commitment to STEM education and opportunity across Washington State. The event was made possible from sponsors Battelle and The Museum of Flight.

The evening began with welcome remarks from University of Washington leadership, including Provost Tricia Serio and Vice President Rickey Hall, who emphasized the significance of MESA’s contributions to advancing diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. Their speeches set the stage for a heartfelt acknowledgment from Governor Ferguson, who recognized the program’s pivotal role in shaping future STEM leaders in Washington.

“It is clear why Washington is one of the best states for science and technology. By helping students build their STEM skills early, we’re investing in the future of our state—and Washington MESA has been leading that change for many, many decades.”

-Governor Ferguson

Download the full press release here.