“Our mission…is to expose kids to STEM and STEAM, and to have those ‘aha’ moments in (every program we sponsor),” says Scientech Foundation of Indiana President Jeff Rasley.

Those programs which they fund, through their grants, include robotics, maker spaces, and a program which actually teaches physics to preschoolers!

On their website, the Scientech Foundation states their mission as “supporting education programs in engineering, science, technology, medicine, and related fields”, throughout the state.

But since he’s been on board, Jeff says, the Foundation’s support has expanded to STEAM education programs. He and several other members implemented the addition, giving grants to educational organizations in the arts, as well.

“Fascinating”

One of these arts programs, which Jeff describes as “fascinating”, is the Center for the Performing Arts’ “Science of Light & Sound” presentation, which happened in May.

The Foundation also currently sponsors two VEX Robotics teams, as well as a mobile science unit for local Girl Scouts, and some summer science camps, among their grantees.

In 2024, according to their website, the Scientech Foundation gave grants totaling $141,000 to both STEM and STEAM educational programs. They list their 2025 grants budget as $170,000.

And Jeff says they will be discussing grant applications for 2026 in October.

Jeff brings a unique background as an author, adventurer and philanthropist to his work with the Foundation. He’s also the President of nonprofit Basa Village Foundation, as well as Coordinator and organizer of Himalayan treks & tours through award-winning travel agency Adventure GeoTreks.

And he has published 17 books so far–and offers coaching services to fellow writers! (Here’s the link to his most recent book, the novella Presbyterian vs. Methodist Youth Groups Rumble in Pokagon Park.)

Jeff discussed his background, offered a closer look at some of the programs which the Scientech Foundation of Indiana supports and talked about what’s next.

On this edition of Over Coffee® we cover:

• Jeff’s memories of his own student days;

• How his philanthropic work with Basa Village Foundation influenced his perspective on education in the U.S.;

• How he first became involved with the Scientech Foundation;

• Jeff’s own educational background;

• Some of the STEAM programs which the Foundation has sponsored;

• A closer look at the preschool physics program;

• How the “Science of Light and Sound” presentation engaged students through a performing-arts lens;

• One of Jeff’s favorite “aha” moments he’s observed, in the student programs;

• A closer look at the Foundation’s new grantee, Friends of the White River;

• What’s next, for the new school year;

• How to support the Scientech Foundation.