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Paige Shalter Bruening, Ph.D Senior Consultant Dr. Paige Shalter Bruening has a Ph.D. in Educational Policy and Leadership, with specializations in Educational Psychology and Teacher Education, from The Ohio State University. She began her career as a middle school teacher and taught in schools in Columbus, OH and Columbia, SC. She later moved to Capital University where she was an Associate Professor and taught Educational Psychology, Developing as an Educator and Social Studies methods courses. She supervised student teachers, was the Assessment and Accreditation Coordinator for the Education Department and served as the Chair of the College Faculty. She left Capital to become a school liaison at Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s Big Lots Behavioral Health Pavilion and eventually led the Hospital School Program there. She worked with the hospital, families and schools to assist children who had been admitted to easily and effectively re-enter the educational system after hospitalization and conducted professional development with local school district counselors on the importance of collaboration between the hospital and schools. Paige began consulting work for The PAST Foundation in November 2025 and has been instrumental in grant writing, professional development, the creation of Microschools and developing industry partnerships. In her spare time, Paige enjoys cooking, reading, crocheting and doing any sort of puzzle. Email: pshalterbruening@pastfoundation.org

Javier Cruz-Ginez Multimedia Coordinator Javier is a fourth-year at The Ohio State University majoring in Moving-Image Production and the Digital Storyteller at The PAST Foundation. Also known as the Digital Auteur at The PAST Foundation, Javier uses his skills in digital media to share PAST mission and vision with the world. Javier enjoys watching films, music, and photography in his free time. Outside of PAST, Javier, with his friend's help, created “Demise Creative ” to foster creative collaboration and promote local artists of different forms, emphasizing social justice. Demise Creative is a creative collective that uses film to document and highlight artists creating a difference in the Columbus, Ohio community. Expected to graduate in 2025, Javier plans to use his knowledge of film and experience at PAST to continue to impact his community through the digital arts. Email: jcruz@pastfoundation.org | Website: https://jcgfilms.com/

Brianna Agomessou STEM Innovation Lead I am the new Portable Innovation Labs coordinator. I graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelors in Criminology with a minor in Forensic Anthropology. I have a passion for education and working with people. I'm passionate about inspiring young minds and fostering a love for learning. I have plenty of experience working with students and educators. I have an eye for detail and believe in putting the best version of myself forward everyday. My goal is to reach the hearts and minds of the people I interact with each and every day. My hobbies include cooking, dancing, and learning about the world around me. Email: bagomessou@pastfoundation.org

Sam Kula STEM Coordinator Sam Kula is a STEM coordinator at The PAST Foundation. He worked at PAST in 2017 and 2018 helping run the Innovators Club and Summer programs while finishing his degree. Sam has spent time post-graduation working with suspended and expelled students at the YMCA’s Juvenile Justice Program as well as writing and delivering philanthropy-focused curriculum for See Kids Dream before returning to PAST to work with Portable Innovation Labs and The Ready Rangers Program. He chose to return to PAST because he values the lasting impact their programs and educators have on students. Sam has a BA in Child & Youth Studies and a minor in Mathematics from Ohio State University. Sam’s hobbies include tabletop games, disc golf, and food.

Maria Green Cohen, M.A., J.D. Impact Officer Maria Green Cohen, The Reporter, is the Impact Officer at the PAST Foundation. In 2007, Maria joined the PAST Foundation as a member of the ethnographic research team conducting PAST’s first STEM program study of the Metro Early College High School, and went on to lead multiple research projects and contributed to more than sixty PAST Foundation publications. On the Leadership Team, Maria oversees compliance with the PAST project management process and procedures, as well as managing project reporting for PAST. In her role as Impact Officer, Cohen tracks proposals, contracts, project implementation and reporting. She is responsible for quality control and quality assurance for delivered services. Over the course of her work with PAST, Maria has held both administrative and research positions. With her commitment to equity in education and a love of spreadsheets, Maria has transitioned from her role of providing STEM program evaluation to overseeing project administration for PAST. Her training as an ethnographer, and experience as an attorney and editor, helped hone the communication and organizational skills essential to her role as Impact Officer for PAST. Mentoring has been a highlight for Cohen during her time at PAST, where she has had the opportunity to recruit and train college and graduate student interns to apply their education to hands-on qualitative and quantitative research, meeting PAST’s mission of linking learning to life . When not at PAST, Maria is an avid reader, Scrabble player, world traveler, and dedicated lap-swimmer. A graduate of Oberlin College, Maria received her M.A. in Folklore from the Folklore Institute at Indiana University and a J.D. from Indiana University. Email: mgreencohen@pastfoundation.org

Alyssa Reder Director of OSLN Central OH STEM Hub Alyssa first joined PAST in 2014 as an Administrative Assistant to STEM Programming and Research. In 2021, her role shifted to STEM Program Coordinator where she coordinated, created, and collaborated within all areas of PAST, including work with students, educators and industry. Continuing with her work, Alyssa is now the Director of Project Management at the PAST Foundation. Prior to her start at PAST, Alyssa worked in Administrative and Educational Research Field work at the Crane Center for Early Childhood Research & Policy at the Ohio State University. After receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in Middle Childhood Education, Alyssa decided to pursue the world of educational research. This is where she found her true passion for the transformation of education for administrators, teachers, and students. Alyssa’s work at Ohio State fueled her desire to continue working within the field of development and improvement of educational practices across all grades and subjects. Alyssa received her B.A. in Middle Childhood Education from The Ohio State University. She received her teaching license through Ashland University’s Bachelor’s Plus Program. Email : areder@pastfoundation.org | LinkedIN : @Alyssa Reder

At PAST, we believe innovation starts with people! Our team brings together educators, researchers, designers, and storytellers—each committed to bring learning to life. The People Linking Learning to Life At PAST, we believe innovation starts with people. Our team brings together educators, researchers, designers, and storytellers—each committed to building meaningful learning experiences and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in education. Staff Brianna Agomessou Investigator of Intellect STEM Innovation Lead View Bio Pam Andrews Executive Wrangler Copyeditor View Bio Paige Shalter Bruening, Ph.D Doyenne of Inspiration Senior Consultant View Bio Andrew Bruening, Ph.D. The Fabricator Chief Innovation Officer View Bio Maria Green Cohen, M.A., J.D. The Reporter Impact Officer View Bio Annalies Corbin, Ph.D. Chief Goddess Founder & CEO View Bio Javier Cruz-Ginez Digital Auteur Multimedia Coordinator View Bio Cassie Davis Fact Forager Research Assistant View Bio Lane Fargher Navarro, Ph.D. Quæsitor Magnus Director of Research View Bio Kayla Galloway Culture Detective Research Field Manager View Bio Jessa Goldner Explorer Extraordinaire Assistant Director of Student Experiences View Bio Kelleigh Huey Academic Alchemist STEM Experience Instructor View Bio Sam Kula Sire of STEM STEM Coordinator View Bio Steve Martindale, CPA Chief Financial Officer View Bio Ashley Price Khaleesi of Curiosity Director of Student Experiences View Bio Marcy Raymond Bridge Builder Strategy Officer View Bio Alyssa Reder Baroness of Balance Director of OSLN Central OH STEM Hub View Bio Daijah Robinson Botanical Maverick Student Experiences Coordinator View Bio Nikki Stancampiano Workforce Warrior Director of Workforce Development & Columbus EcosySTEM View Bio Lisa Swartzwelder Pilot of Progress President & Chief Operating Officer View Bio Annalise Williams Workflow Wizard Administrative Assistant & HR Representative View Bio Kathy D. Wright, EMBA, M.Ed. STEMinista Director of Educator Experiences View Bio Board of Trustees PAST’s Board brings together diverse leaders from education, business, and public service who help guide our mission and strategic direction. Board Executive Committee Richard D. Rosen, Ed.D. Chair Indigo Strategies | Executive Director Ram Sastry Treasurer Accenture | Director Jasmine de Gaia Secretary Wells Fargo | Head of Customer Data Strategy Trustees Nick D'Angelo Eaton | Manager Public Affairs Michael Dennis CAS - Div of Am Chem Society | Vice President Holly Gross Benesch Attorneys At Law | Attorney Wes Hall Battelle | Senior Vice President of Philanthropy & Education Sarah E. Holland, Ph.D. Gray & Pape, Inc. | Marine Archaeologist Chris Johnson American Electric Power | Enterprise & Innovation Gustav Witthöft JP Morgan Chase & Co. | Product Owner for Customer Identity and Authentication Carrie Yang Marsh Cyber Practice | Senior Vice President

Discover how CORI is building tomorrow's engineers through hands-on robotics. Explore CORI's innovative approach to robotics education today! Center of Robotics Innovation Building Tomorrow’s Engineers Through Hands-On Robotics The Center of Robotics Innovation (CORI) is a PAST Foundation initiative dedicated to advancing robotics education across Central Ohio. CORI connects students, schools, mentors, and industry partners through hands-on STEM experiences that prepare students for the real world. At the heart of CORI is a commitment to workforce readiness—empowering students to explore science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through competitive robotics and project-based learning. How CORI Works CORI supports K–12 robotics teams and educators with FIRST® Robotics Team Development We guide students through the process of launching and sustaining FIRST® teams at all levels—FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC), and FIRST LEGO League (FLL). Mentor & Industry Connections CORI facilitates partnerships between local businesses, universities, and student teams—ensuring learners gain real-world insight and build relationships with future employers or schools. Training & Resources We offer workshops, events, and access to high-quality tools and curriculum to support skill-building in mechanical design, programming, teamwork, and more. What is FIRST®? FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a global leader in youth robotics. Founded by inventor Dean Kamen, FIRST provides age-appropriate robotics competitions that promote innovation, collaboration, and STEM exploration. FIRST Robotics Competition High School FIRST Tech Challenge Grades 7–12 FIRST LEGO League Grades 4–8 FIRST LEGO League Jr. Grades K–3 Robotics Resources Helpful tools and organizations for educators, coaches, and teams: Resources: FIRST Robotics MATE Underwater Robotics Adafruit Maker Shed VexPro Make Magazine Arduino Robotics Education Links: Teach Engineering Robotics Curriculum FIRST Robotics Canada Robotics Education and Competition Foundation Homeschool Robotics

Discover how to invest in the future of learning. Support PAST's mission to transform education and prepare students for real-world success. Invest in the Future of Learning Real-world learning. Lasting community impact. We connect students, educators, and partners to the future of education through innovation, research, and hands-on programs. Donate Now Why Give to PAST? For over 20 years, we’ve helped reimagine education through hands-on programs, research and development, and strategic partnerships that prepare students for real-world success. With your help, we can: Provide scholarships and hands-on learning for students Train educators to teach with purpose, creativity, and relevance Expand access to STEM programs in underserved communities Sustain and grow innovative spaces like the PAST Innovation Lab Honor legacies that continue to shape our mission Ways to Give One-Time Gift or Monthly Support Make a gift that fits your budget and your values. You can choose to give now, set up monthly donations, or become an annual sustaining partner. Honor Someone Special Celebrate a mentor, student, or loved one with a gift in their memory or name. We currently honor: Chad Raymond Memorial Scholarship Beverly Ann Erwin “Bev’s Garden” Support a Program You Care About Select a focus area that matches your passion: Student Programs Support after-school opportunities, summer learning, and scholarships that help students grow confidence and career-ready skills. Girls Who Lead Help empower young women to pursue and lead in STEM fields. STEM Professional Development Provide teachers and school leaders with tools and training that make learning meaningful and future-focused. PAST Innovation Lab Support our one-of-a-kind educational R&D lab where students, educators, and industry come together to create the future of learning. STEM Action Center Advance regional collaboration and programming that brings STEM to life in Ohio schools. Bev’s Garden Contribute to the care and growth of this living memorial and outdoor learning space. Want to Do More? There are many ways to support our work beyond a financial donation. Donate Time or Expertise Mentor a student, support a project, or lend your professional skills. Give In-Kind Resources From equipment to curriculum materials, in-kind gifts help us serve more students with greater impact. Partner on a Project Have an idea for collaboration? We’re always open to new ways to connect. Let us know what you’re thinking. Contact Us Donate Now Make Your Gift Today Join us in building the future of education—one student, one idea, one program at a time.

Explore PAST Brand Standards for a comprehensive guide on our brand's identity. Access full brand guide and learn about PAST Brand Standards today! PAST Brand Standards Access Full Brand Guide Born from the fusion of Anthropology and STEM, The PAST Foundation reimagines education for an interconnected world. For almost three decades, we’ve blended past insights with present innovations to craft real-world learning experiences. Our journey transforms classrooms into vibrant hubs of action, where learning directly intertwines with life. Download Brand Guide Our Brand Heart Purpose Statement We partner anthropology with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to transform education. By understanding complex societies, we ensure that learning is not just about teaching but is relevant, impactful, and intrinsically linked to real life. Vision Statement PAST collaborates with communities, industries, and educators to integrate transdisciplinary teaching, making education mirror real-world experiences more closely. Mission Statement By partnering anthropology with science and technology, we invite the world to design, construct, and engage in experiences that link learning to life. Primary Signature Use the primary signature brandmark to represent the brand whenever possible. The signature is designed in two different formats: with tagline and without. Depending on an application’s layout, you may find that one format of the signature works better than another. Please exercise good judgment in all creative executions. PRIMARY SIGNATURE Download Assets PRIMARY SIGNATURE WITH TAGLINE Download Assets Vertical Signature If text becomes too small to read on primary signature and more vertical space is available, the vertical signature should be used as secondary option. VERTICAL SIGNATURE Download Assets VERTICAL SIGNATURE WITH TAGLINE Download Assets Other Marks LOGOMARK Download Assets SEAL Download Assets LOGOTYPE Download Assets LOGOTYPE WITH TAGLINE Download Assets Primary Color Palette Yellow, Green, Orange, Blue, and Magenta are the primary brand colors. They should be used in most applications such as iconography, typography treatments, gradients, etc. PAST Yellow HEX #FFC805 RGB 255, 200, 5 CMYK 0, 20, 100, 0 PAST Blue HEX #28AAE1 RGB 40, 170, 225 CMYK 70, 15, 0, 0 PAST Green HEX #A5CD37 RGB 165, 205, 55 CMYK 40, 0, 100, 0 PAST Magenta HEX #C85596 RGB 200, 85, 150 CMYK 20, 80, 10, 0 PAST Orange HEX #F5911E RGB 245, 145, 30 CMYK 0, 50, 100, 0 PAST Gray HEX #6E6E6E RGB 110, 110, 110 CMYK 55, 50, 50, 15 Color Gradients Utilizing gradients containing multiple PAST Palette colors are strongly recommended when appropriate. Approved use cases could include backgrounds, photo color overlays, type treatments, and graphic element styling. Some possible combinations could include but are not limited to the following options. Magenta, white, and other PAST color tints may be used sparingly. Please do not use black, or gray as part of a color gradient. GREEN – BLUE YELLOW – GREEN ORANGE – YELLOW – GREEN BLUE – GREEN – YELLOW Typography Access Font Aa PRIMARY TYPEFACE Jubilat Bold Aa Bb Cc Dd Ee Ff Gg Hh Ii Jj Kk Ll Mm Nn Oo Pp Qq Rr Ss Tt Uu Vv Ww Xx Yy Zz 0123456789!@#$%^&*()/ Aa ACCENT TYPEFACE Montserrat Aa Bb Cc Dd Ee Ff Gg Hh Ii Jj Kk Ll Mm Nn Oo Pp Qq Rr Ss Tt Uu Vv Ww Xx Yy Zz 0123456789!@#$%^&*()/ Access Font Aa BODY COPY Montserrat Aa Bb Cc Dd Ee Ff Gg Hh Ii Jj Kk Ll Mm Nn Oo Pp Qq Rr Ss Tt Uu Vv Ww Xx Yy Zz 0123456789!@#$%^&*()/ Access Font Imagery Subject Matter Utilize photos containing actual PAST students and activities whenever possible. Select photos that include hands on activities, and diverse subjects when appropriate. Stock is permissible but should be high resolution and implemented thoughtfully. Color Treatments When using photos for PAST, punchy bright colors are preferred. Alternatively Gradient color overlays are recommended. When implementing gradients convert color photos to greyscale and apply gradient overlays with appropriate blend modes so images maintain contrast and do not appear washed out. Access Photo Library Iconography Implement iconography as a graphic element for added engagement and visual interest. Generally PAST iconography should be monolined with a thick weight, rounded terminals, and placed in high contrast scenarios. Iconography should feel warm and energetic. Download Icon Library PAST IN ACTION RESEARCH REPORTS STUDENT EXPERIENCE PHYSICS AGRICULTURE BIONICS 3D PRINTERS TELESCOPE ECOLOGY ROBOTICS MICROSCOPE ENGINEERING PAST Sub-brands Event/Initiative Sub-brands When producing or utilizing a PAST sub-brand, the following visual elements should be considered and applied when possible: Heavier font weights, PAST Primary Color Palette and soft-cornered iconography. Sub-brands should maintain the voice and feel of the PAST parent brand. PAST INNOVATION LAB PRIMARY SIGNATURE Download Assets PAST INNOVATION LAB VERTICAL SIGNATURE Download Assets PAST INNOVATION LAB LOGOTYPE Download Assets PAST Fab Lab Download Assets Green Educators Download Assets Innovation Press Download Assets Stem of Spirits Download Assets Stemthusiasts Download Assets PAST Foundation Research Download Assets Kipp Creates Download Assets Powered by PAST Contextual Usage Implement the “Powered by PAST” tagline when highlighting PAST’s primary ownership of an initiative in a Co-brand situation. This mark should primarily be used on new subbrands, initiatives, and promotional materials. PAST Fab Lab Download Assets Portable Innovation Labs Download Assets Green Educators Download Assets Innovation Press Download Assets Microschool Download Assets Columbus EcosySTEM Download Assets EcosySTEM Builders Download Assets Stem of Spirits Download Assets Stemthusiasts Download Assets PAST Foundation Research Download Assets Kipp Creates Download Assets Early IT Microschool Download Assets Social Media @pastfoundation Have Brand Questions? We're here to help! For all brand-related inquiries, including logo usage, color guidelines, typography, or any other branding needs, please contact Javi at jcruz@pastfoundation.org . Contact Us Brandmarks Primary Colors Typography Images Icons Subbrands Brand Guide Brandmarks Primary Colors Typography Images Icons Subbrands Brand Standards Menu Close

Discover how PAST Foundation's Research & Evaluation strengthens programs. Explore our research to link learning to life effectively. Research & Evaluation Proven Methodology Every year, our Student Experiences immerse learners in hands-on, real-world challenges that spark curiosity, build confidence, and connect learning to life. Our annual reports showcase the measurable outcomes, inspiring stories, and powerful partnerships behind these programs. Whether you’re an educator, funder, parent, or partner, these reports offer a window into the transformational impact of authentic STEM learning—told through student voices, educator reflections, and data-driven results. Research by the Numbers 20+ years of applied educational research 100+ evaluation projects across schools and organizations 30+ research publications shared nationally 500+ educators and administrations informed Millions of data points analyzed for real-world insight What We Offer PROGRAM EVALUATION Our expert team offers internal and third-party external evaluations that meet the highest standards of transparency, cultural relevance, and rigor. We use mixed-methods approaches that balance the big picture with on-the-ground realities. We help our partners: Define program goals through key interviews Monitor implementation with real-time observations Measure impact with surveys and data analysis Refine strategy with actionable recommendations RESEARCH PARTNERSHIPS We collaborate with districts, nonprofits, universities, and agencies to conduct applied research on topics that matter — from STEM identity formation to school design and systems thinking. We turn insights into action and share what we learn to benefit the field. Explore Our Research PAST Research Publications Explore studies, white papers, and reports from our work across the country. View Publications Problem-Based Learning Publications Dive into scalable models and real-world success stories from our student STEM programs View PBL Publications Research Bibliography Curious about the research behind Learning Unboxed, Hacking School, and more? View Full Bibliography PDF Student Experience Reports Discover annual reports that highlight how our programs shape student learning. View Student Reports Start a Conversation Want to learn more or explore how we can support your project? Use the form below or reach out directly. We’d love to work with you! Reach Out

Discover the PAST Innovation Lab, a hub for applied STEM education in Columbus. Explore how PAST Innovation Lab fuels the future of education. PAST Innovation Lab Where Innovation Meets Education The PAST Innovation Lab is a 32,000 square foot research, development, and programming hub for applied STEM education. Located at the gateway of Columbus’s Kinnear Road Tech Corridor (just west of The Ohio State University). The Lab is the headquarters of the PAST Foundation and a central site for student experiences, educator development, and collaborative problem solving. Fueling the Future of Education The PAST Innovation Lab isn’t just a building, it’s a launchpad for what’s next in education. It’s where educators try new methods, students build confidence and curiosity, and partners come together to design solutions that make learning more relevant, engaging, and equitable. Real change takes vision and partnership. If you’re a funder, donor, or organization passionate about transforming education through applied STEM, we invite you to join us. Become a Partner Make a Donation Designed for Discovery An 18,000 square foot flexible learning and R&D space A 16,000 square foot Fab Lab and robotics arena Specialized zones for student programming, prototyping, and educator training Whether you're visiting for a summer STEM camp, participating in educator professional development, or collaborating on a community-based workforce initiative, the Innovation Lab is where ideas come to life! Explore the Fab Lab Who We Serve 01 Students After-school and summer programs introduce students to real-world challenges and STEM career pathways through immersive, hands-on experiences. Student Programs 02 Educators The Innovation Lab hosts both in-person and virtual professional learning experiences that equip educators to implement transdisciplinary, problem-based learning. Educator Programs 03 Community & Industry Partners We partner with schools, higher ed institutions, community leaders, and industry professionals to co-create relevant, research-backed programming that prepares learners for the future of work. Parter with Us What’s Next? Learn how we bring this mission to life through immersive programs, applied research, and powerful partnerships. Contact Us View Photo Gallery Take a Virtual Tour