EMU STEM Ed Institute Staff Member Honored at MLK Presidential Luncheon

Raj Rahman, undergraduate assistant for the Institute for STEM Education, Outreach, and Workforce Development at Eastern Michigan University (EMU STEM Ed Institute), has received the 2026 MLK “Evans-Strand Peace Award” Scholarship. Raj was recognized for his remarkable achievements during the 2026 MLK Presidential Luncheon held at the EMU Student Center on January 19, 2026.

“This award means everything to me because it recognizes what I care about the most: people, inclusion, cultural diversity, and compassion are not just goals; they are daily choices. I am incredibly honored and grateful,” said Rahman.

Rahman, a junior mechanical engineering major at EMU, joined the STEM Ed Institute team in fall 2024. He is an invaluable member of the team developing hands-on STEM activities for use in K-12 classrooms and the community in Washtenaw County. These activities include circuitry, lava lamps, and robotics to inspire the next generation to pursue a career in STEM and the skilled trades.

“Raj is a talented and engaging member of the EMU STEM Ed Institute team. He has a unique ability to connect with younger students that visit the EMU campus. He brings incredible leadership to our team and deserves this award. We are tremendously proud of him,” said Sibrina Collins, director of the EMU STEM Ed Institute.

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About the EMU STEM Ed Institute

Founded in 2023, the Institute for STEM Education, Outreach and Workforce Development at Eastern Michigan University, is a community-driven hub to promote STEM education and encourage local students to pursue a career in the STEM fields and skilled trades. The mission of the STEM Ed Institute is to serve and sustainably support and strengthen the community's cultural wealth related to STEM educational opportunity, outreach, and workforce development. For more information, please visit the STEM Ed Institute website.