Although it is held year after year, the Putnam City Junior Scientist Day at OMRF is perpetually fresh and exciting. elementary, middle and high school students representing each of the district’s schools spend one day as “junior scientists” in labs throughout the Foundation. Their excitement and anticipation as they don their lab coats is almost palpable as they make their way to their appointed labs with their scientist escorts.
The purpose of the Junior Scientist Day is twofold. First, it is one small way in which OMRF thanks the Putnam City School District for its support through the years. Secondly, and perhaps most important, it provides a firsthand, up-close look at science for youngsters whose love for research may take hold and blossom as a result of their half-day experience in the lab.
Since the inception of its Cancer Drive in 1975, Putnam City Schools students, teachers and supporters have raised just under $1.6 million for cancer research at OMRF.
In early 2000, the Putnam City Chair in Cancer Research was established, with the district pledging to raise an additional $1 million above and beyond their 25-year cumulative gift. Dr. Linda Thompson, a member in the Immunobiology and Cancer Research Program, was named the Putnam City Chair in Cancer Research in April 2001.
“This makes me more excited every year,” said Vernon E. Cook, OMRF Associate Vice President of Development. “When you see these students paired off with scientists, peering head-to-head into a microscope of learning the intricacies of a crystal structure, the wonder and enthusiasm just spills over.
“It can be an amazing experience – for the scientists as well as the students,” Cook said. “This event just might provide the catalyst that inspires one of these children to choose a research career. It is really very special, and we are proud to be associated with Putnam City Schools in such a positive way.
