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Partner with PAST to support impactful learning. Discover ways to collaborate and hear what our partners are saying. Partner with PAST today! Partner with PAST Linking Learning to Life—Together At PAST, we believe learning is most powerful when it connects to the real world. That connection is only possible because of partners who share our vision. From business and industry leaders to foundations and community organizations, our partners help us make learning more relevant, accessible, and impactful for students everywhere. Why Partner with PAST? We work at the intersection of education, business, and community. Our mission to design and deliver experiences that link learning to life thrives when shared with others who believe in innovation, equity, and long-term impact. Whether you’re a corporate leader, foundation, entrepreneur, or community advocate, your partnership supports systems that prepare students for the future and strengthen communities today. Ways to Support Our Work There’s more than one way to make an impact. We welcome a wide range of involvement, depending on your goals, capacity, and vision. Financial Contributions In-Kind Donations Volunteering Time & Expertise Strategic Partnerships We’re always open to new ideas and creative approaches. Let’s talk about how we can work together. Work With Us Donate to PAST Working with PAST has been one of the most rewarding partnerships we’ve ever had. Their ability to bring innovation and purpose to education is unmatched.” — Corporate Partner, STEM Industry Leader What Our Partners Are Saying The PAST Foundation helped us connect our mission with meaningful educational outcomes. We weren’t just writing a check — we were investing in real-world change.” — Foundation Program Officer What Our Partners Are Saying I’ve never seen students more engaged. PAST’s approach to learning is exactly what our future workforce needs.” — Local Business Leader What Our Partners Are Saying Our Sponsors & Donors We are grateful for the generous support of our current partners and sponsors. Want to connect your mission to something bigger? Let’s explore how we can align your values with tangible outcomes in education, equity, and workforce readiness. Join Our Sponsor Network

Refund Policy PAST Foundation Refund Policy After making payment for your PAST Summer Experience, if you decide to cancel for any reason, we will refund your payment in accordance with the following schedule and conditions. By providing payment to us, you acknowledge and agree to these terms. For cancellation requests received prior to March 1, 2025, we will refund 90% of your payment. For cancellation requests received between March 2, 2025 and May 1, 2025, we will refund 50% of your payment. After May 1, 2025, no refunds will be given. How to Request a Cancellation within the Timeline Above: You may email us your refund request at programs@pastfoundation.org and our response within 48 hours will be confirmation of receipt of your email. (If you do not hear from us, then we have not received your request). All requests must be in writing via email (not by phone or by informing a PAST staff member). Refunds will not be given: If a child is asked to leave the program due to behavioral issues, including a child not following rules or instructions from PAST staff. If a child missed a day or more of camp, or dropped out of camp early. If a family decides they no longer wish to participate in the program for any reason. Extraordinary Circumstance: Exception to the rules above — Refunds may be granted if a registrant is unable to attend the event/program due to a family death, or other extraordinary circumstance. In such a circumstance, please contact PAST by email with the specifics of the situation. A review shall be conducted by PAST management. Decision on whether approval was granted shall be emailed to the requestor. If you have any questions contact us via email at purchasing@pastfoundation.org .

Dive into scalable models and real-world success stories from our student STEM programs. Problem-Based Learning Publications GROWING AMERICA: TRANSDISCIPLINARY PROJECT-BASED LEARNING ACTIVITIES Work on Problems » Projects » Products: Designing Transdisciplinary Problem-Based Learning began over ten years ago, and has undergone a process of trial, experimentation, and on-going field-testing. It is a process-driven workbook, intended to provide hands-on templates for designing and implementing 21st century education. The step-by step process outlined is designed to help instructors and community partners build robust and sustainable environments that engage and excite the learning team of students and teachers. Read More FORENSICS IN THE CLASSROOM JOURNAL Field school journal to accompany Forensics in the Classroom Program. Read More PROBLEMS > PROJECTS > PRODUCTS: DESIGNING TRANSDISCIPLINARY PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING Work on Problems » Projects » Products: Designing Transdisciplinary Problem-Based Learning began over ten years ago, and has undergone a process of trial, experimentation, and on-going field-testing. It is a process-driven workbook, intended to provide hands-on templates for designing and implementing 21st century education. The step-by step process outlined is designed to help instructors and community partners build robust and sustainable environments that engage and excite the learning team of students and teachers. Read More FORENSICS IN THE CLASSROOM PROGRAM Originally a field study program created through many partnerships with experts in each field, this educational program walks students and teachers through the steps of forensic science including: investigating a crime scene, fingerprints, crime scene excavation, and blood spatter. Powerpoint slides are included with each subject, including a DNA slideshow. Read More CAVING: THE WEB OF LIFE The goal of Caving: The Web of Life is to utilize hands-on education and emphasize research outside of the classroom. Over the course of the two-year build-out of the program, students from across Ohio participated in perfecting the activities and outcomes by providing feedback. The activities can be modified to take place in any environment. Read More GARBOLOGY Garbology is a hands-on minds-on educational program that explores global issues of waste management involving students in understanding what we really waste today and what are some alternatives for managing waste, today and tomorrow. This program includes three presentations and a Garbage Sort Activity that are aligned with the Ohio Content Standards and Benchmarks. The presentations and interviews with Dr. William Rathje, founder of the Garbage Project, are a great way to get students engaged and involved. Read More

Discover the prestigious Awards and Recognition PAST Foundation has achieved throughout our history. Learn more about our accolades today! Awards and Recognition Our History Since 2000, PAST Foundation has been recognized for its leadership in STEM education, transdisciplinary innovation, and community collaboration. Our awards and grants reflect the trust placed in our work by partners across education, government, and industry. Below are selected highlights from recent years. Want to Help Make More of This Possible? Every recognition is the result of partnership. If you’re interested in supporting our work or becoming a funding partner, we’d love to hear from you! Make a Donation Partner with Us Awards and Recognition 2020–2025 Highlights 2025 Daniel G. Roberts Award for Excellence in Public Historical Archaeology, Society for Historical Archaeology. 2023 OhioX Trailblazers Award, OhioX Association. In recognition for her leadership and contributions to transforming tech in Ohio. 2020 Future 50, Columbus CEO Magazine, inaugural class of Future 50 Innovators and Leaders in Columbus, Ohio. 2016-2019 Highlights 2019 Women in Design Awardee, Columbus College of Art and Design. 2018 Columbus Business First BizTech Outstanding Technology Team Award, to PAST Foundation and JadeTrack for their work in creating the Energy4Learning Program. 2017 Columbus Business First BizTech Outstanding Non-Profit Service Award, in recognition of contributions made to a culture of technology leadership and innovation. 2016 Smart Business Magazine Smart 50 in Ohio, Names PAST Foundation and Annalies Corbin for excellence in innovation. 2016 Carol V. Ruppe’ Distinguished Service Award, to honor her record of sustained and outstanding service to both the Society of Historical Archaeology and The Advisory Council on Underwater Archaeology. 2016 White House Summit on High School Redesign, recognized PAST Foundation innovative approaches in high school design. 2016 STEM 2026, PAST Foundation recognized for excellence in Innovation by the U.S. Department of Education. 2000–2015 Highlights While our work continues to evolve, these early recognitions laid the foundation for what PAST is today: 2015 Clinton Global Initiative 2015, PAST Foundation honored before the Redefining Rural and Native America Education roundtable. 2013 The Women’s Book Magazine Profile, Highlighted as a leading Columbus area STEM education non-profit CEO. 2012 100 Women Leaders in STEM Profile, Acknowledged for work in a leading STEM organization. 2006 National Oceanic Partnership Program Excellence in Partnering Award, presented for “The Archaeological and Biological Analysis. Connect with Us Inspired by the impact? Join us in creating more! Every award reflects a network of partners who believe in linking learning to life. Partner with Us Make a Donation Contact Us

Explore Hacking School: Five Strategies to Link Learning to Life. Discover innovative ways to make education relevant today. Hacking School: Five Strategies to Link Learning to Life A guide to transforming education with practical, student-centered strategies Buy the Book Education is not broken—it’s simply no longer relevant in the way it was designed over a century ago. Hacking School offers a bold path forward. Written by PAST Foundation CEO Dr. Annalies Corbin, this book introduces five foundational strategies to help educators reconnect learning with the world students live in today. The Five Essential Strategies for Educational Transformation These practical frameworks are designed to empower educators and resonate with students, aiming to make learning both meaningful and relevant. Ultimately, “Hacking School” is a call to action for educators, administrators, and policymakers to embrace change and lead towards a more effective educational system that prepares students for success in a rapidly evolving world. Student Agency Culturally Relevant Education Mastery Learning Transdisciplinary Teaching Problem-Based Learning Upcoming Online Courses Explore the online courses currently being developed to complement the book. These courses will dive deeper into each of the five key strategies and provide practical insights and tools for educators to implement in their classrooms. Stay tuned for more details and registration information! View All Courses About Annalies Corbin Affectionately called, the Chief Goddess, Dr. Annalies Corbin is a nationally recognized researcher, speaker, author and foremost expert connecting scientific research with education and business and industry within communities. Learning Unboxed Podcast “Learning Unboxed” tackles the outdated nature of the K-12 education system which, though not broken, operates on principles established over a century ago. This podcast features Annalies Corbin and her guests as they explore innovative educational strategies and practices, offering fresh perspectives on teaching, learning, and the future of work. It complements the themes of “Hacking School” by providing additional insights and inspiration for educators aiming to transform and modernize their approach to education. Listen to Learning Unboxed Learn more about Annalies Ready to Link Learning to Life? Today, more than ever before, real-world learning impacts every aspect of our planet. PAST Foundation offers free webinars, innovative and culturally relevant programs for students, educators, and communities, in addition to program evaluation. Our programs are founded on years of research and iterative design. Join us on the journey as we help you link learning to life! Buy the Book Listen to the Audiobook

Celebrate innovation and impact with STEM of Spirits 2026! Discover how summer STEM programs change lives. Save the date and join us! STEM of Spirits Stem of Spirits 2026 Join us for STEM of Spirits 2026 as we celebrate 26 years of innovation, impact, and linking learning to life! Hosted at the PAST Innovation Lab, this evening brings together community members, educators, and industry leaders for hands-on STEM activities, local food and spirits, and inspiring stories of student transformation. All proceeds support scholarships for students to attend our Summer Programs—ensuring every young learner has the chance to explore, create, and thrive. What to Expect Interactive STEM demos and hands-on activities Tastings from local breweries, distilleries, and food vendors Opportunities to meet students, educators, and community partners A celebration of how STEM learning transforms lives Save The Date Date: Spring 2026 Location: PAST Innovation Lab, 1003 Kinnear Rd, Columbus, OH 43212 How You Can Participate Become an Experience Partner Coming Soon Sponsor the Event Coming Soon Make an In-Kind Donation Coming Soon About Stem of Spirits Since 2017, STEM of Spirits has brought the PAST Foundation community together to celebrate the connection between innovation, education, and craft. What began as a fundraiser has grown into an experience that highlights how STEM is part of everyday life, including the food and beverage industries. Over the years, we have partnered with hundreds of local makers, brewers, chefs, and distillers to create an event that is hands-on, community-focused, and full of discovery. These lasting partnerships reflect a shared commitment to inspiring learning that connects students with real-world opportunities. All proceeds support student scholarships for PAST’s Summer Programs — helping more young learners explore, invent, and thrive through hands-on STEM experiences. I’ve brought a lot of what I learned at PAST camps with me to college—especially how science and math connect to everyday life.” — Christian, PAST Alumnus How Summer STEM Programs Change Lives The CAD & 3D Printing camp brought out so much creativity in all of us. It was amazing to see students sharing and inventing together.” — Audrey, High School Student & Summer Program Intern How Summer STEM Programs Change Lives I was surprised how much fun STEM could be—and that I was really having fun AND learning!” — Laken, Middle School Student How Summer STEM Programs Change Lives Ready to Celebrate? Reserve your seat, bring your friends, and support the next generation of innovators. Contact Us

Explore Virtual Resources that inspire curiosity and creativity. Our Virtual Resources bring STEM to life for teachers, students, and parents. Virtual Resources STEM Learning Anytime, For Anyone Our virtual resources are here to inspire curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning. Whether you’re a teacher, student, parent, professional, or simply someone who loves to explore, you’ll find tools, ideas, and experiences that bring STEM to life. Explore Our Offerings Learning Unboxed Hosted by PAST Founder and CEO Annalies Corbin, this podcast dives into the future of learning with voices from education, business, and industry. Episodes explore the innovations shaping how we teach, learn, and lead. Listen to the Podcast Online Courses From systems thinking to STEM integration, our self-paced online courses are a great entry point for educators seeking to transform their practice. Each course is designed with real-world application and immediate classroom impact in mind. Browse Online Courses STEM Activities at Home Looking for engaging, budget-friendly STEM challenges? Our collection of downloadable activities is designed for students of all ages to explore science, engineering, and design thinking from home or the classroom. Browse STEM Activities STEM Streaming STEMStreaming brings you hands-on activities to try at home, virtual learning experiences for the classroom, and webinars for educators looking to grow their practice. Browse activities, watch past sessions, or explore our archive of STEM strategies. Explore STEMStreaming Stay in the Loop Sign up for our newsletter to get new STEM activities, course updates, and podcast episodes sent straight to your inbox. Join Our Email List

Explore 'Learning Unboxed with Annalies Corbin' for insights on positive disruption in education and industry partnerships. Discover the innovative podcast now! Learning Unboxed with Annalies Corbin Discover the role of positive disruption in the education and business and industry partnerships of today and the near future. Most Recent Episodes Start Listening New episodes every week featuring voices from education, business, research, and beyond. Each conversation highlights the innovative ideas and unlikely collaborations that are reimagining what learning can look like. Listen on Your Favorite Platform Spotify Apple Podcasts Stitcher About the Podcast The Learning Unboxed podcast dives into the bold ideas and forward-thinking practices transforming education from the ground up. Hosted by PAST Foundation Founder and CEO Annalies Corbin, each episode offers a window into real-world innovation, from classroom redesigns to workforce pipelines and everything in between. I would argue that, in fact, education is not broken. It’s just no longer relevant — we spend billions of dollars annually trying to fix something that’s not actually broken. Our current education system is functioning exactly as it was designed 100 years ago. The problem is that the current system is obsolete. —Annalies Corbin Whether you're an educator, entrepreneur, policy maker, or lifelong learner, this podcast invites you into the conversation. Meet the Host: Annalies Corbin As founder and CEO of the PAST Foundation, Annalies has helped transform how communities connect education to real-world opportunity. Through her work with educators, students, researchers, and business leaders, she has become a national voice for innovation in education and workforce development. More About Annalies LinkedIn Join the Conversation Innovation in learning starts with sharing ideas. Dive into our latest episodes or subscribe to get inspired by the voices shaping the future of education. Contact Us All Episodes

Explore our STEM-focused Summer Programs and tackle real-world challenges! Join our Summer Programs for hands-on, immersive experiences today! STEM Learning That Feels Like Summer Fun At PAST, summer isn’t a break from learning, it’s a chance to make learning come alive! Our STEM-focused summer programs give students the opportunity to explore real-world challenges through immersive, hands-on experiences. Whether indoors at our Innovation Lab or outdoors in the community, every program is designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and develop future-ready skills. Summer Programs 2026 Summer Registration Opens Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 10:00 AM Join us at the PAST Innovation Lab between 10:00 AM–1:00 PM for optional in-person support and registration assistance. Families will register through Arly , our program management platform that keeps everything in one place—payments, paperwork, family info, and updates. Please set up or log into your Arly account before registration day. Register through Arly View Summer Catalog *Creating an account does not guarantee a spot. Our programs fill quickly! Amazing camp that we are so fortunate to be [a part] of. It is great for my kids to meet kids from other schools, interact with counselors, engage in fun and new technologies that school often doesn't have, and keep that summer slide in check by having a topic to focus on.” — 2024 Summer Parent What People Are Saying I would sign my child up for another PAST summer program, because of the valuable skills he developed and experienced through this program.” — 2020 Summer Parent What People Are Saying I’m grateful for your inclusivity. It's obvious that all are valued for who they are and the unique gifts they possess. This culture is highly conducive to learning...and realizing dreams.” — 2020 Summer Parent What People Are Saying Powered by Our Partners Our Summer Programs are made possible by our incredible community of supporters. Have Questions? Not sure which program is the right fit? Want to know more about the registration process or student support? Contact Us Visit the FAQs What Makes Our Programs Different? Real-World Relevance Programs are designed and led by experts who integrate science, tech, engineering, and design into meaningful challenges students care about. Future-Ready Skills Collaboration, problem-solving, creativity, and communication are embedded into every experience. Led by Experts Every program is guided by passionate educators, scientists, designers, and engineers. Supportive Environment Our staff is committed to inclusion, safety, and student growth — we create a culture where learners thrive. Flexible Locations Indoor and outdoor options available at the PAST Innovation Lab, Mezzacello, and The Lawn at CAS.

Discover the PAST Innovation Fab Lab, a makerspace where big ideas become reality. Meet our instructors and explore endless possibilities. PAST Innovation Fab Lab A cutting-edge makerspace powered by community, creativity, and the MIT global Fab Lab network. What Is the Fab Lab? The PAST Innovation Fab Lab is a fully equipped, MIT-aligned fabrication lab and makerspace designed to turn big ideas into tangible realities. As a certified MIT Fab Academy Node , we offer one of the few opportunities in the U.S. to earn global credentials through the Fab Academy course. From students and educators to entrepreneurs and artists, our lab is a place where learning, design, and innovation converge. What Makes Us Unique? MIT Fab Academy Node We are one of the only U.S. hosts of the world-renowned Fab Academy program—an intensive, project-based course in digital fabrication led by Neil Gershenfeld and the MIT Center for Bits and Atoms. Full-Spectrum Fab + Maker Tools Our lab meets MIT’s global standards and includes professional-grade fabrication equipment for digital and industrial prototyping. We support everything from student research to commercial product development. Open to the Community We collaborate with schools, creatives, nonprofits, and businesses to support innovation across Central Ohio. If you’ve got a bold idea, we’ve got the tools to help you make it. Training & Credentialing We offer teacher training and Industry-Recognized Credentials (IRCs) aligned to fabrication and advanced manufacturing careers. What’s Inside the Lab Advanced Fabrication Zone Ideal for large-scale or high-power work CNC Router Industrial Woodworking Tools Plasma Cutter Laser Cutter Full-Spectrum Fab + Maker Tools Designed for detail-oriented, small-scale projects 3D Printers (FDM & Resin) Vinyl Cutter Embroidery Machine Direct-to-Garment Printer See What’s Being Made From student-designed wearables to laser-cut architectural models, each week brings new projects to life in the lab! Schedule a Tour or Workshop Meet Our Instructors Andrew Bruening, Ph.D. Dr. Andrew Bruening is the Program Innovations Officer at PAST and leads the Maker/Fab Lab at PAST in Columbus, Ohio. Andrew has been working in our Fab/Maker Space for more than 10 years. View Portfolio Kelleigh Huey Kelleigh Huey is a Student Experience Instructor at the PAST Foundation and known as the Academic Alchemist! Her combined love of kids and learning led her to the PAST Foundation, where she sought to make a difference in STEM education. View Portfolio Nikki Stancampiano Nikki is enthusiastic about cultural exchange and initiating sustainable change. As the Workforce Development Coordinator at PAST, she aims to use her diverse background to address educational and workplace disparities. View Portfolio Fab Academy: Earn a Global Credential The Fab Academy is a 5-month course in digital fabrication that blends hands-on skill-building with global mentorship. Students master skills in: 2D/3D design Electronics Programming CNC machining Project development Interested in enrolling or partnering with us to bring Fab Academy access to your school or community? Learn More Interested in Partnering or Visiting? Our lab is a place for experimentation, learning, and invention, where users can play, create, mentor, and innovate. Whether you're working on a personal project, a startup idea, or an educational assignment, our Fab Lab provides the tools and support to make almost anything imaginable. For more information on accessing our Fab Lab, participating in workshops, or reserving equipment, please reach out! Contact Us Powered by Our Partners

Join the PAST Team and help us reimagine education. Explore open positions and join our passionate, collaborative organization today! Join the PAST Team We’re always looking for passionate, curious, and collaborative people to help us reimagine education. Whether you’re interested in teaching, designing programs, or supporting our operations, there may be a role for you at PAST! Open Positions At PAST, you’ll join a collaborative, curious, and mission-driven team. Whether we’re designing new programs, mentoring students, or building partnerships, we lead with creativity, purpose, and a shared belief that education can (and should) be better. We post full-time, part-time, and seasonal roles throughout the year. Check back regularly for new opportunities. We don’t have any open positions at the moment, but we’re always building new opportunities. Check back soon, follow us on social media, or subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to know when we’re hiring. Newsletter What It’s Like to Work at PAST We believe learning should be joyful, meaningful, and connected to the real world, and that goes for our workplace, too. Meet the Team At PAST, you’ll join a collaborative, curious, and mission-driven team. We lead with creativity, purpose, and a shared belief that education can (and should) be better. Whether we’re designing new programs, mentoring students, or building partnerships.

Discover how we're Building the Future of Learning, One Experience at a Time. Join our mission to transform education with innovative experiences. Building the Future of Learning, One Experience at a Time Who We Are What started as a question—how can we connect scientific research to classrooms and communities? —has grown into a national hub for educational innovation, partnering with schools, industries, and nonprofits across the country. Since 2000, PAST Foundation has been designing and delivering real-world learning experiences that prepare students and educators for the future of work. PAST connects education, business, and community to create hands-on, problem-based learning that is engaging, equitable, and grounded in research. From Microschools and teacher training to student STEM camps and national evaluation projects, we work to ensure learning is meaningful, measurable, and transformative. Our Mission By Partnering Anthropology with Science and Technology, we invite the world to design, construct, and engage in experiences that link learning to life. Our Vision To join forces with community, industry, and educators, integrating education to encompass transdisciplinary teaching and learning to better reflect relevant real-world experience. What We Believe Linking learning to life is more than a tagline. It’s our commitment. We believe real-world learning equips people of all ages to thrive in their careers, communities, and daily lives. Grounded in research and shaped by hands-on experience, our approach is built to be relevant, equitable, and transformative. We’re committed to building a future of learning that is inclusive, innovative, and empowering—rooted in equity, guided by evidence, and created in partnership with the communities we serve. Our DEI Commitment Diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential to our mission. We are committed to listening, learning, and taking meaningful action to ensure all learners and educators feel seen, supported, and inspired. This includes amplifying underrepresented voices, designing inclusive learning experiences, and continuously improving our practices to reflect the needs of our communities. Anthropology + STEM = Engaged Student Learning Our Process Our model—Anthropology + STEM = Robust Ecosystems of Learning—is the foundation of everything we do. Our team includes anthropologists, researchers, and educators who understand that schools and communities are complex systems. We believe that meaningful change begins by understanding how those systems function. Through coaching, consulting, and collaboration, we help schools and partners implement transdisciplinary, problem-based STEM education. Our approach increases teacher engagement, deepens student learning, and strengthens community involvement. By collaborating with teachers, school leaders, and community partners, we help create learning environments that connect classroom instruction to real-world challenges and prepare students for future careers. Our Reach Our work has been honored by the U.S. Department of Education, Forbes, and others. 3.2+ million students impacted 24,000+ educators engaged 500+ industry and community partners 1,000+ districts influenced 596 programs at 120+ locations What’s Next? Learn how we bring this mission to life through immersive programs, applied research, and powerful partnerships. Partner with PAST See Educator Offerings Explore Student Programs View Our Research