CHERRY HILL, N.J., May 15, 2017 – Destination Imagination (DI), a non-profit experiential learning organization dedicated to preparing students for the future through hands-on science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics (STEAM), as well as through social entrepreneurship challenges, is pleased to announce this year’s TryDI Event & the “Design Your Ford of the Future Challenge” powered by Ford STEAM Experience, in partnership with The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley and Visit Knoxville. The event will take place on May 19 from 3:30pm to 7:30pm at the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley, 976 Irwin Street, Knoxville, TN.
Working to inspire the next generation of creative thinkers and doers, this year’s TryDI Event provides an opportunity for the local Knoxville Boys & Girls Clubs community to experience the impact of Destination Imagination’s Challenges and resources first-hand. Powered by Ford STEAM Experience, the “Design Your Ford of the Future Challenge” will encourage attendees to re-imagine a Ford vehicle of the future, then design and develop an innovative prototype that addresses their solutions. Teams will also develop a brand for their innovation and a 60-second pitch to present to a panel of experts.
“Our ultimate goal is to inspire interest in technology and innovation, which is not only critical to Ford, but also to the world’s future development.” said Tracy Magee, Ford STEAM Experience Brand Manager, Ford Motor Company.
“Although the use of technology is growing exponentially among young people, it is becoming increasingly difficult to attract them to technology-related educational programs. For this same reason, we are pleased to continue working with Destination Imagination to inspire the next generation innovations to explore STEAM-related fields.”
The landscape of the event will also include various interactive-technology exhibits and a Destination Imagination Instant Challenge Rubber Duck Launch.
“Just like Destination Imagination, Ford recognizes the power of inspiring the next generation of thinkers, creators and collaborators. We are honored to have them as a sponsor again this year.” said Dr. Chuck Cadle, CEO, Destination Imagination.
The team at Visit Knoxville second that sentiment. “We are so fortunate to have some of the brightest minds in the world visit Knoxville every year during this time,” said Kim Bumpas, President, Visit Knoxville.
“The TryDI event is a wonderful opportunity for our community and the student members of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley. You never know what amazing technology may come from these young men and women.”
Local businesses Buddy’s Bar-B-Q and Smoky Mountain Kona Ice LLC will support the event with a celebratory BBQ picnic and water ice for Boys & Girls Clubs student members and attendees.
About Destination Imagination
Destination Imagination, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) volunteer-led non-profit organization whose purpose is to inspire and equip students to become the next generation of innovators and leaders. The organization is a leader in project-based learning experiences, where students work together in teams to solve open-ended STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) and service learning Challenges and then present their solutions at tournaments. Founded in 1982, Destination Imagination has impacted more than 1.5 million students. To learn more, please visit http://destinationimagination.org.
About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company is a global automotive and mobility company based in Dearborn, Michigan. With about 202,000 employees and 62 plants worldwide, the company’s core business includes designing, manufacturing, marketing and servicing a full line of Ford cars, trucks and SUVs, as well as Lincoln luxury vehicles. To expand its business model, Ford is aggressively pursuing emerging opportunities with investments in electrification, autonomy and mobility. Ford provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products and services, please visit www.corporate.ford.com.
About the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley
The Boys and Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley strive to provide a world-class Club experience that puts success within reach of every young person who walks through its doors, putting them on track to graduate from high school with a plan for the future. The organization provides a safe, caring, environment for Club members during the summer and after school and offers over 35 fun, education programs covering a range of topics, including STEM, The Arts. Health & Wellness, Fitness Programs & Team Sports, and Summer Learning Loss Prevention. For more information, visit https://bgctnv.org/
About Visit Knoxville
Visit Knoxville is the official Convention and Visitors Bureau for Knoxville and Knox County. As the primary promoter of Knoxville as a destination for visitors and groups, Visit Knoxville’s mission is to accelerate sustainable economic growth and development by increasing visitor and convention business to the Knoxville & Knox County community. Named Tennessee’s 2015 Destination Marketing Organization of the Year, the organization is responsible for marketing Knoxville via regional, national and international platforms, supporting community initiatives that encompass art, history, entertainment and outdoor adventure, and facilitating large conferences and sporting events at venues like the Knoxville Convention Center. For more information, visit https://www.visitknoxville.com
Media Contacts:
Destination Imagination
Andrea Oliveira
Oliveira House Public Relations 512-922-7505 andrea@oliveirahousepr.com
Ford Motor Company Anika Salceda-Wycoco
Ford Communications 313-845-0627 asalceda@ford.com
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Tennessee Valley
Zane Hagy 865-384-8564 zane@envirolutionary.com
Visit Knoxville
Erin Donovan 865-306-4341 edonovan@knoxville.org
