NEW ORLEANS – Holy Cross School alumnus Mark Delesdernier, Class of 1954, donated $150,000 to establish the Captain Mark and Adrianne Delesdernier STEM and Robotics Innovation Center. He presented the check to Holy Cross School Headmaster Sean Martin ’92 during his 65th class reunion held at the Southern Yacht Club on March 23.
The Delesdernier STEM and Robotics Innovation Center will provide Holy Cross students with enhanced instruction and support in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math. The Center will include partnerships to engage students with future career options, enrichment activities, competitions and exploration of science and technology fields, and supplemental learning opportunities through summer camp and after-school programs.
This significant donation will allow the school to establish STEM and robotics laboratory space and will provide equipment and support for students to enhance their learning environment.
In 2005, the Holy Cross STEM program was launched with the purpose of educating young men in the fields of engineering and robotics. The formation of the “Robotigers” Robotics Team was at the heart of this endeavor as students became engaged in the effective implementation of problem-solving skills in the areas of design, computer programming and engineering while constructing robots to compete at regional, state, and international competitions. Over the past 13 years, the Holy Cross STEM program has grown to include nine AP and dual enrollment courses. In addition, the school is a participant in Project Lead the Way in its elementary and middle school grades.
“We truly appreciate the generosity of the Delesdernier family and their vision for helping the school advance its STEM program. Establishing the Delesdernier STEM and Robotics Innovation Center will enable us to engage even more students who wish to explore STEM fields and become involved with our nationally-recognized robotics program,” said Martin.
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