AIA Coastal Virginia and the Chrysler Museum of Art Partner for 2nd Annual Steam Event to Inspire Young Minds

NORFOLK, Va., Dec. 6, 2024– The American Institute of Architects Coastal Virginia Chapter (AIA CoVA) is proud to partner with the Chrysler Museum of Art to host the 2nd Annual AIA CoVa STEAM Event on February 25, 2025. This unique collaboration will bring together professional volunteers from the architecture, engineering, and construction industries to engage over 200 fifth-grade students from Norfolk Public Schools’ Title I schools in hands-on STEAM-focused activities that celebrate the intersection of art, design, and innovation.

Held within the inspiring galleries of the Chrysler Museum of Art, this event underscores the museum’s commitment to making art and creativity accessible to all members of the community, particularly its youngest learners. By hosting the event, the Chrysler Museum aims to expose students to the power of art as a tool for learning and problem-solving, while highlighting the museum as a welcoming space for exploration and inspiration.

Connecting Classroom Lessons to Community Solutions
The event will feature interactive activity stations led by professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction, showcasing how math, science, and art can address real-world challenges in the students’ own communities.

“We’re thrilled to partner with AIA Coastal Virginia for this meaningful event,” said Emily Cayton, Manager of Experiential Learning at the Chrysler Museum. “The Chrysler Museum is dedicated to fostering creativity and sparking curiosity in young minds. By hosting the STEAM Event, we provide a unique opportunity for students to experience art in new ways, connecting it to science, technology, and design.”

Empowering Representation
A special highlight of this year’s event is the participation of architecture students from Hampton University, a leading Historically Black College and University (HBCU). These college students will set up their own station, allowing fifth graders to interact with and learn from young professionals who reflect the diversity of their own community.

“The AIA CoVa STEAM Event is about making connections—between classroom lessons, career possibilities, and the vibrant communities where these students live,” said Brittany Raffin, AIA CoVA Coordinatory of K-12 Programs and AIA CoVA Board Member. “The Chrysler Museum provides the perfect backdrop to inspire students, showcasing the importance of art alongside science, technology, and design.”

Event Details:

• What: 2nd Annual AIA CoVa STEAM Event
• When: February 25, 2025, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Where: Chrysler Museum of Art, Norfolk, VA
• Who: 200 fifth-grade students from Norfolk Public Schools, professional volunteers from the architecture, engineering, and construction industries, and Hampton University architecture students.

About the Partnership
This partnership between AIA Coastal Virginia and the Chrysler Museum of Art represents a shared commitment to empowering the next generation through creativity, innovation, and education. Together, we aim to connect students with real-world applications of what they learn in school, inspiring them to imagine bright futures in STEAM fields while celebrating the central role of art and design.

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ABOUT AIA COASTAL VIRGINIA

The American Institute of Architects Coastal Virginia Chapter is dedicated to advancing the practice of architecture and advocating for the role of design in enhancing our communities.

ABOUT THE CHRYSLER MUSEUM OF ART

The Chrysler Museum of Art brings art and people together through experiences that delight, inform, and inspire. Internationally recognized for its collection of more than 35,000 objects, including one the largest glass collections in America, the Museum also includes free admission, the state-of-the-art Perry Glass Studio, a full-service restaurant, shop, theater, works on paper space, and oversees the historic Myers House. The Museum boasts an ambitious schedule of exhibitions, events, and programs, and has been nationally recognized for its commitment to inclusion through its innovative gallery host program. For more information, visit chrysler.org. Follow on social media @ChryslerMuseum to receive the latest updates.

For more information or interview assistance, please contact Tanya Kaish Keller, Public Relations Advisor, at The Meridian Group. 757-618-3655| tanya@qantmcreative.com