National 4-H Council and HughesNet Team Up to Inspire Future Scientists by Asking the Nation's Youth "Why Do You Love Science?"

Youth can upload a 15-second video for a chance to win $1,000 and a trip to 4-H National Youth Science Day in Washington, D.C.

Chevy Chase, MD (May 19, 2014) – As part of their commitment to introduce more American youth to the excitement of science, National 4-H Council and HughesNet®, the nation’s #1 satellite Internet service from Hughes, launched the "Inspire a Future Scientist" nationwide video contest today, inviting young people to answer the question, "Why do you love science?" From now until June 30, 2014, any interested young person from the ages of 13 to 19 can submit a video of up to 15 seconds that demonstrates his/her love of science and shows how science is connected to everyday life.

The winner will receive a $1,000 prize, a 4-H science kit and a trip to participate in the 4-H National Youth Science Day (NYSD) event on October 8, 2014 in Washington, D.C. The runner-up will also receive a 4-H science kit and a trip to 4-H NYSD, and all finalists will receive a 4-H science kit. 

According to one study, 2.8 million STEM jobs will be created and ready for skilled employees by 2018. However, studies also show many students with high STEM aptitudes are not pursuing a STEM education. “Inspire a Future Scientist” is designed to spark interest in STEM learning and careers by helping young people use creativity to connect science to everyday things they experience and enjoy.

"It's critical that we get more young people interested in pursuing STEM education and careers. We can capture and hold their interest through hands-on learning with traditional instruction,” said Jennifer Sirangelo, president and CEO, National 4-H Council. “For over 100 years, 4-H has used its proven, successful methods to do just that—allowing young people to use their hands, as well as their minds to learn how exciting and rewarding a STEM education can be. We're proud to partner with Hughes, a company on the cutting edge of technology, to help make this contest a reality."

“Not only is Hughes the pioneer in satellite broadband Internet service for small, local rural and ex-urban communities in America, we are committed to helping cultivate the next generation of America's technology leaders,” said Mike Cook, senior vice president, Hughes North American Division. “And through our partnership with National 4-H Council, the nation's leading youth development organization, we will continue to put that commitment into action.”