About MAPS

The Modesto Area Partners in Science (MAPS) lecture series has operated since 1990 to foster science education in our community for youths through adults. Once a month during the academic year, MAPS offers stimulating free science programming, bringing educators and local citizens into contact with scientists and mind-expanding ideas.

History

MAPS originated with the awarding of an Eisenhower grant to MJC and MCS.  The purpose of the grant proposal was to improve the quality of science education in MCS District and Stanislaus County. 

Initially intended to be a 3 year grant, careful use of funds enabled the grant to be extended for a fourth year. During the grant, about 20 science courses were taught specifically for K-6 MCS teachers with about 30 teachers per course. In addition, a pre-service program was conducted that gave MJC and CSU Stanislaus students experience with the teaching of science. There were two very successful major spin-offs of the program. A monthly Friday night science series was initiated that is now in its 30th year and continues to draw capacity audiences. A 5th grade science field trip program was another popular spinoff of the grant.  The most recently conducted version of the field trip was called SEEK (Science Educational Encounters for Kids).”  Every month of the academic year, MAPS now continues to serve up informative and inspiring science programs for the Community, MJC staff and students.

MAPS Committee

Jennifer McDonald - MAPS Chair, MJC Professor of Biology

Catherine Tripp –  MJC Professor of Biology

Richard Anderson – MAPS Adviser

Bill Anelli – MJC Professor of Philosophy

Linda Brzezinski - MJC Professor of Chemistry

Daniel Chase – MJC Professor of Astronomy/Physics

Arnold Chavez - Great Valley Museum Director

Teri Curtis – MJC Professor of Biology

Danielle Hicks - MJC Professor of Biology

Susan Kerr – MJC Professor of Anthropology

David Martin - MJC Professor of Biology

Elizabeth McInnes – MJC Professor of Biology

Ron Megee - MJC Professor of Biology

Dave Menshew - Enochs High School Science Instructor

Steven Murov – MAPS Adviser

Jennifer Richmond - MJC Professor of Biology