News Article - 3 minute read

On April 19, 2025, Sigma Mu Mu Chapter, Third District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., proudly held its inaugural STEM Easter Egg Hunt at Moorfield Station Community Park in Ashburn, VA. The event brought together approximately 50 enthusiastic elementary school students from the local community for a fun-filled day of hands-on science and engineering activities—with an Easter twist.

The day kicked off with an engaging group science experiment that introduced the students to the scientific method. The young participants learned how to determine whether an egg was hard-boiled or raw without cracking it—an interactive way to explore key scientific principles such as observation, hypothesis formulation, experimentation, and data analysis. This opening activity set the tone for a day centered around curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity.

Following the experiment, students rotated through two exciting STEM challenges designed to inspire innovation and problem-solving:

Egg Drop Challenge

In this timeless activity, students were tasked with designing a protective device that could prevent a raw egg from breaking when dropped from a significant height. To add a festive flair, participants were encouraged to incorporate Peeps—the iconic marshmallow Easter treat—into their designs. The challenge blended concepts of physics and engineering with playful ingenuity, resulting in a variety of inventive and colorful contraptions.

Structure Design Challenge

Armed with only uncooked pasta and Peeps, students were challenged to construct the tallest freestanding structure. This activity required not only engineering insight and structural understanding but also teamwork and out-of-the-box thinking. The results were as impressive as they were imaginative, with students rising to the occasion with remarkably elaborate builds.

After wrapping up the STEM challenges, participants were treated to a well-earned pizza lunch, offering a chance to relax, connect, and reflect on their creations.

The highlight of the afternoon was a thrilling Easter Egg Hunt, where students eagerly scoured the park to uncover over 1,000 hidden eggs, lovingly prepared and placed by Sigma Mu Mu Chapter’s dedicated Brothers. The sheer joy and excitement on the children’s faces captured the spirit of the day.

The event concluded with an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding efforts in the day’s challenges. Dr. Duane Keye, Sigma Mu Mu Chapter’s Basileus, closed with heartfelt remarks, thanking the students and their families for participating, and emphasizing the chapter’s ongoing commitment to promoting STEM education in Loudoun County. He highlighted the importance of community collaboration in preparing the next generation of scientists, engineers, and leaders.