BLOOMINGTON, Ill. — In partnership with For A Better Tomorrow, Illinois Wesleyan University marked the success of the third annual STEAM Olympics, a hands-on event that continues to inspire students from first grade through high school while benefiting IWU students with financial need.
The event raised $7,500 for needs-based scholarships at IWU. The check was presented to President Sheahon Zenger during the University’s “All In for Wesleyan” annual giving day on April 14.
Organizers said the STEAM Olympics has grown beyond its original vision of promoting science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics, into something deeper. By raising scholarship funds, the event helps create pathways for IWU students who might otherwise struggle to remain enrolled or have access to opportunities.
Conducted in February, the 2026 event involved 85 volunteers and drew 285 students from 46 different schools, who engaged in learning and friendly competition across a variety of STEAM disciplines. It raised a total $21,500 to support scholarships and projects on both local and global scales.
"At Illinois Wesleyan, we recognize that our impact is greater when we work with local partners," said Van Miller, IWU's Assistant Vice President for Advancement, Corporate and Community Partnerships. "The STEAM Olympics exemplifies this collaborative spirit. The event's success reflects strong community support from volunteers and partners, reinforcing Illinois Wesleyan's commitment to educational access, community engagement, and social responsibility."