Ashley and the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation Empowers Students with a Multi-State K-12 STEM Initiative

Furniture World News Desk on 10/3/2024

Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC (Ashley) and the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation (the Foundation) continue to provide comprehensive STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education to thousands of K-12 students in partnership with The STEM Academy, Inc. (STEM 101). The multi-state initiatives aim to provide students with hands-on learning experiences that not only ignite their passion for STEM but also better prepare students to meet the demands of the modern workforce.

Through a variety of classroom and summer class offerings, over 4,600 students across Minnesota, Mississippi, North Carolina and Wisconsin engaged in STEM learning opportunities for the 2023-2024 school year. Participating schools received seven specialized kits including Measurement, Build Your Own Speaker, Design and Monitor a Building System, Electrical Circuits, Build Your Own Ukulele, Electronics using Arduinos, and Hydroponics., offering students practical applications of STEM concepts. 

“Watching classrooms of students learn how to work together, with their hands, creatively with their minds, explore new tools, and come out of it with something they assemble, was one of the best things to be able to witness,” stated Jessica Ingvalson, Northside Elementary Teacher, Wisconsin. “Critical thinking skills aren’t being taught like they used to, these kits were an excellent way to bridge that gap and get students to strengthen their skills.”  

By continuing to invest in the next generation of leaders, these partnerships aim to raise student interest in engineering, trade, and manufacturing-based pathways and careers. Following the latest school year, STEM 101 conducted a survey in which they found that 70% of students are interested in pursuing STEM careers, far exceeding the national average of 23%, and is a 5% increase of the 2022-2023 school year results. 

“Our partnership with STEM 101 plays a vital role in fostering innovation and driving our industry forward,” stated Ron Wanek, Founder and Chairman of Ashley Furniture Industries. “STEM education is not just about preparing the next generation for future careers; it’s about equipping them with the critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for tackling the challenges of tomorrow.” 

In addition to the STEM 101 initiative, Ashley remains committed to strengthening and developing partnerships in support of the education pipeline. Ashley and the Foundation continue to expose students to career opportunities, advanced curriculum and equipment, and robotics programs. Together, we are championing education for the benefit of the community and greater economy.  

About Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC 
 (Ashley) feels that every person deserves more value for their money. Established in 1945, Ashley is the largest manufacturer of home furnishings in the world and strives to be the most innovative and competitive home furnishings company on the planet. From design through fulfillment, Ashley is committed to delivering the world’s best home furnishing values, selection and service, and earning the loyalty and trust of its customers every day. Visit Ashley online at www.ashleyglobal.com and “like” Ashley Furniture Industries on Facebook.   

About The Ronald and Joyce Wanek Foundation, Inc. 
The Ronald and Joyce Wanek Foundation, Inc. is a philanthropic organization committed to supporting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education and other community initiatives. The foundation was established by Ronald Wanek, founder and chairman of Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC, and his wife, Joyce. Through its various programs and partnerships, the foundation aims to inspire and empower students to pursue careers in STEM fields, as well as improve the quality of life in the community. The foundation is dedicated to making a positive impact on society and creating a better future for all. 

About The STEM Academy, Inc.
STEM 101 is a 501c(3) non-profit organization dedicated to advancing economic development by improving STEM literacy for all students.  No matter where children live, they should have access to quality learning environments. A child’s zip code should not determine their opportunities. STEM 101 provides 21st century STEM career minded curriculum, physical resources and professional development to inspire, engage, and prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow. The team at STEM 101 has successfully implemented and supports K-12 STEM programs across the USA, India, and Bermuda.  More information can be found at www.stem101.org and “like” STEM 101 on Facebook.