Knobloch, Wang recognized for connections to STEM educators

Dr. Neil Knobloch, professor, and Dr. Hui-Hui Wang, associate professor, received the 2024 Christian J. Foster Award from the Purdue Office of Engagement.

The award recognizes their contributions to K-12 science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education in Indiana. Knobloch and Wang have provided professional development opportunities for high school teachers in 13 Indiana public high schools. In turn, those teachers have reached 7,500 students with STEM content in agriculture, food, and natural resources.

“Our work in K-12 engagement connects future STEM professionals and leaders to the 21st Century Land-Grant University,” Knobloch said.

Drs. Wang and Knobloch in a classroom Drs. Hui-Hui Wang (left) and Neil Knobloch were recognized for their work that contributes to K-12 STEM education by using agriculture, food, and natural resources as a context for interdisciplinary teaching and learning.

Their work contributes to advancing STEM by positioning agriculture, food, and natural resources (AFNR) as a dynamic and authentic context for interdisciplinary teaching and learning. They have explored how AFNR can powerfully integrate STEM teaching and offer students opportunities to engage in real-world problem-solving.

Their research and outreach provide theoretical grounding, practical tools, and empirical insights that support the design and implementation of meaningful, context-rich STEM education in K–12 settings.

“Integrated STEM in K-12 is important because real-world problems, such as climate change, and food security are inherently interdisciplinary,” Wang said. “This approach helps students develop deeper understanding, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills by connecting STEM knowledge and applying them in a meaningful way.”

Featured Stories

Wildlife alumna Lauren Wetterau kneels next to a red squirrel midden in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem; a red squirrel sits on downed tree
Alumna Lauren Wetterau's Research Featured on Animal Planet Show

2023 wildlife alumna Lauren Wetterau is coming to a television screen or streaming service near...

Read More
Lenny Farlee shows teachers how to use a Biltmore stick at the Natural Resources Teachers Academy.
FNR Extension Set to Offer Four Editions of Forest Management for the Private Woodland Owner Course in Spring 2026

Do you want to learn more about trees, forests and how to better manage your woodlands for a...

Read More
FNR canopy image
Into the woods: Discovering forestry at Purdue

For Collin Morris, choosing Purdue Agriculture meant choosing a place that was close to home but...

Read More
Farm land with silos
Q3 agrifood industry sentiment stabilizes near baseline as investment appetite returns

This quarter’s Agrifood Economy Index (AEI) reveals that industry sentiment has stabilized...

Read More
Organic greenhouse in Peru
Growing food security in the High Andes

In Peru’s Colca River Valley, a project with the National University of San Agustín de...

Read More
Headshot of Maria Marshall standing in the hallway of an academic building, smiling.
2025 Hovde Award recipient announced

Purdue University College of Agriculture awarded the Frederick L. Hovde Award of Excellence in...

Read More