Partnership between Samsung and Boys and Girls Clubs Promotes STEM

A vice president at Heron Therapeutics, Dr. Erol Onel has been working as a pharmaceutical physician for more than a decade. A graduate of the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, he is experienced with all phases of clinical development. Maintaining an active community presence outside of work, Dr. Erol Onel donates to several charities, including Boys and Girls Clubs of America, an organization dedicated to helping youth reach their full potential.

Thanks to a partnership with Samsung Electronics America, Boys and Girls Clubs of America promotes youths’ interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Together, the organizations created the Climate Superstars Challenge. This first-of-its-kind challenge motivates youth to take action to protect the environment. Over the course of seven weeks, members of Boys and Girls Clubs of America participate in sustainability activities, and a single chapter is selected as the grand-prize winner.

The challenge focuses on individuals between the ages of 11 and 13. Now in its second year, it has enjoyed the participation of more than 180 chapters from around the United States. Each weekly activity that each chapter must complete during the competition focuses on a core theme. These themes include reducing waste and conserving water. The specific activities of each chapter are highly creative and can range from interpretive dance videos to hosting a recycle party. Winning chapters receive a technology makeover using ENERGY STAR-certified products.