The Verizon Foundation’s Justina Nixon-Saintil Talks Critical Need for STEM Education, the Verizon Innovating Learning Schools Program, and STEM’s Biggest Misconception

Interview with Justina Nixon-Santil by Aquala Bogan

Justina Nixon-Saintil is the Director of Education and Technology programs for the Verizon Foundation, an organization within the Verizon Corporation that focuses on addressing issues in education, healthcare, and energy management in communities in need. Nixon-Saintil leads the foundation’s education initiatives for K-12 and higher education with an emphasis on implementing technology-based solutions to improve STEM-related academic achievement in underserved communities.

Prior to joining the Verizon Foundation, Nixon-Saintil held several leadership positions within Verizon; most notably as a member of the company’s Broadband Product Development team, helping to launch the company’s high speed internet product. Before joining Verizon (then NYNEX) in 1996, Justina worked as an Engineer for the U.S. Department of Energy in West Valley, N.Y. She has authored several articles on the intersection of parenting skills and general leadership skills, and has served as a marketing consultant. She is a member of the national service organization, Jack and Jill of America, and is very active in the parent-teacher organizations at her children’s schools.

Nixon-Saintil recently spoke with WashingtonExec and talked about why STEM education is critical to America’s youth and future, she revealed what’s unique about the Verizon Foundation’s Verizon Innovative Learning Schools Program (VILS), introduces us to Thinkfinity.org, tells us the biggest misconception about STEM and explains how parents can encourage their kids to get involved in STEM.

Click here to read the full interview from its original source, Washington Exec.