Sarsef

SARSEF's Mission is to create Arizona's future critical thinkers and problem solvers through Science and Engineering.  SARSEF's vision, simply stated, is: "Every Child.  Thinking Critically. Solving Problems."

SARSEF is a 501 (c)(3) organization located in Tucson, AZ.  Formed in 1955 to encourage the next generation of scientists, SARSEF has grown from a modest event with 100 science projects to involving 95,000 K-12 students from 25 cities throughout Southern Arizona in science, technology, engineering, math and research. SARSEF has a 62-year proven track record of history and success in Arizona providing opportunities for all students to participate in critical thinking and problem-solving as they conduct STEM research. The SARSEF Fair is one of the few that include Kindergarten through 5th grade because of the organization’s core belief that discovery and creativity begin early.

SARSEF's programs reach 64,000 underrepresented (female/minority) K-12 children with the goal of closing the achievement gap in science and mathematics through transformative educational opportunities. In the last four years, female participation in SARSEF programs has increased by 42%. SARSEF reaches children at every phase of life inspiring leadership, self-discovery, and meaningful engagement in their own learning.  

Teaching and learning in the school environment is extended into outreach events such as festivals, museum days and events focused on at least one area of the STEM spectrum—attesting to enthusiasm for SARSEF’s programs in the wider community. SARSEF is important to changing lives.  Students realize bigger futures for themselves as a result of participating in SARSEF.  From a student who received her first trophy for “using my brain!” to the high school student who discovered his true calling in life was not as an automotive manager and recently graduated from Harvard, the impact is undeniable. 

From a SARSEF student:

Each individual within SARSEF has been incredibly warm and welcoming; the culmination of participation has left me with a sense of belonging to something greater, something that can positively impact the world in which we live. In addition, the acquaintances that I have made within our science fair community will be those whose friendships will continue throughout my life.   Over the past ten years, I have been able to witness the future of science; the prospective milestones each of us can make are phenomenal.   In the future, I certainly would like to continue to assist SARSEF in any way that I can.  In short, SARSEF has been my Elementary, Middle and High Schools all rolled into one; you have prepared me to be assured that any dream can be accomplished with innovation and hard work.  No matter where I go in life, SARSEF will always be there.

Be a part of the next generation of critical thinkers and problem solvers by joining us today!