Ohio State University Foundation receives Battelle STEM grant for WOSU program
The Ohio State University Foundation has received a Central Ohio STEM grant from Battelle to support WOSU-led Wild Kratts Creature STEM Labs, a program designed to increase student engagement with STEM concepts and introduce careers that combine science, technology and storytelling.
In partnership with the YMCA of Central Ohio, the program will serve students in grades K-4 enrolled in YMCA after-school programs.
“We are thrilled to partner with WOSU to provide engaging STEM experiences that foster curiosity, creativity and learning,” said Mandy Bealer, associate vice president of school age and teen programming for the YMCA of Central Ohio. “Our goal is to help every student reach their full potential, and this partnership will create new opportunities for exploration, discovery and growth.”
This year’s portfolio of 16 programs will bring science, technology, engineering and math to more than 14,000 young people across central Ohio. The 2026 awards total $968,000, bringing Battelle’s cumulative giving through the Central Ohio STEM Grants program to more than $8.8 million since 2013.
“We’re grateful for the generosity of Battelle,” said Amy Palermo, chief content director of education at WOSU. “This program introduces foundational STEM concepts using content from the beloved PBS Kids series Wild Kratts and highlights fields including wildlife science, engineering, animation, filmmaking and science communication, while connecting student curiosity to future careers.”
“These programs put real tools in students’ hands to build STEM skills,” said Wes Hall, senior vice president of philanthropy and education at Battelle. “By funding local organizations, we can meet kids where they are and foster connections to future careers.”
The STEM Labs will launch at YMCA after-school sites across central Ohio beginning in October 2026.
CONTACT: George Davis III
Director of Marketing & Communications
O: 614-292-9678 | george.davis@wosu.org
About Battelle
Every day, the people of Battelle apply science and technology to solving what matters most. At major technology centers and national laboratories around the world, Battelle conducts research and development, designs and manufactures products, and delivers critical services for government and commercial customers.
Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio since its founding in 1929, Battelle makes the world better by commercializing technology, giving back to our communities, and supporting science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. For more information, visit www.battelle.org
About WOSU Public Media
The mission of WOSU Public Media is to engage, inform and inspire our diverse community. An NPR and PBS affiliate licensed by The Ohio State University, WOSU is a noncommercial multimedia organization serving over two million citizens in Central Ohio through broadcast, digital, programming, public engagement, and education experiences.