February, 2022
Each month we recognize an AmeriCorps member serving in Utah for going above and beyond the pledge they took to “Get Things Done.” This month we are proud to recognize Morgan Cryder who is serving with the AmeriCorps Utah STEM Initiative (AUSI).
AmeriCorps members serving with AUSI engage underprivileged youth in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). Through tutoring and mentoring activities, students increase their knowledge of the STEM field and experience a shift in attitude, awareness, engagement, behavior and skill. Students are also mentored by and have the opportunity to network with STEM professionals and education institutions.
Morgan Cryder serves with the Parkside Boys & Girls Club – STEM Club in Orem. Max Rogers, AUSI’s AmeriCorps Program Manager, submitted the following nomination describing Morgan’s stellar service:
“She loves doing STEM activities with the youth, is very engaging and the kids love her. She has a natural talent working with the youth and the joy she she gets from it is reflected in her activities and the way the kids respond to her.
Morgan always goes above and beyond her role as our STEM specialist. Her lesson topics stem from student’s interests and curiosities but introduces new concepts and challenges. Her lesson plans are always thorough and prepped–demonstrating her personal research of the topic and consideration of the various ages she teaches. She makes sure to define vocabulary terms, relates the topic to the student’s everyday lives, and shares possible careers that use the topic being covered.
Morgan’s teaching style uses a student-lead approach–staying where the students are in understanding of the topic before moving on. She inspires the students to have courage, perseverance, and compassion for oneself when learning or practicing new skills–encouraging them to always try their very best. Morgan is not just a STEM specialist but an inspiring role model for our students at Parkside Elementary.”
We extend our congratulations to Morgan for being recognized as the AmeriCorps Member of the Month and thank her for her dedicated service.
What is AmeriCorps?AmeriCorps is your moment to take the path less traveled, to break the status quo, to stop talking about the problem and be the solution. Join AmeriCorps and you can mentor and tutor kids, rebuild a community after disaster, help veterans, or work with local communities to alleviate poverty. There are thousands of opportunities to choose from, find the one that fits you.