Celebrating Kathleen Rice: A Trailblazer in Volunteerism and STEAM Education
Today, I am honored to shine a well-deserved spotlight on Kathleen Rice, a truly exceptional individual who has not only made remarkable contributions to volunteerism but has also played a pivotal role in advancing STEAM project learning through Brilliant Labs in the Edmundston — Madawaska region. Kathleen’s recent recognition and award from l’organisme Les Talents du Haut is a testament to her unwavering dedication and impact in both realms.
While Kathleen’s impressive career in education spans over 30 years, it is her commitment to volunteerism that sets her apart. Retiring from the education field in 2018 did not diminish her passion for supporting students and teachers. In fact, Kathleen continues to devote her time and expertise to schools in the Edmundston-Madawaska region, making a difference beyond the boundaries of her professional responsibilities.
As a passionate advocate for hands-on learning, Kathleen has been instrumental in helping bring Brilliant Labs programming and initiatives to Edmundston and many schools and communities in the Madawaska area. She brought the importance of Natural Making to the forefront, helped onboard many robotics teams from rural areas, and also helped kick-start Brilliant Labs’ summer STEAM camps in the region. These camps have provided students with exciting opportunities to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics in engaging and immersive ways. Through her involvement, Kathleen has not only inspired students to pursue their passions but has also nurtured their curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Within the classroom, Kathleen has been a driving force in supporting in-class sessions focused on coding, robotics, and other innovative technologies. Her dedication to outdoor learning and natural making has connected studens with their environment, fostering a deeper appreciation for the world around them. Additionally, Kathleen’s invaluable contributions have extended to Brilliant Labs’ collaboration with teachers, where she has provided countless project ideas and even offered her translation support to ensure inclusivity and accessibility for all students and teachers across Atlantic Canada and beyond.
Beyond her involvement with Brilliant Labs, Kathleen’s extraordinary efforts in volunteerism have left an indelible mark on the community. Her unwavering commitment to supporting students and teachers in their educational journeys has touched countless lives. Whether it be through organizing the regional Science Expo, Défi Génie Inventif, facilitating community initiatives such as the “I Move… I Learn Relay Race” and “Walk-In-Colours,” or forging partnerships with organizations like the Pierre Lavoie foundation, Université de Moncton or CCNB, Kathleen’s impact is truly far-reaching and always with learners and educators at heart.
As the Executive Director of Brilliant Labs, I am immensely grateful for Kathleen’s unwavering support and collaboration. Her wealth of knowledge, innovative ideas, and genuine passion for STEAM education have been invaluable assets to our organization. Through her selflessness and dedication, she has not only inspired students to embrace STEAM subjects but has also played a significant role in fostering a love for lifelong learning.
On behalf of Brilliant Labs, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to Kathleen Rice for her well-deserved recognition from the organization Les Talents du Haut. We are immensely grateful for her unwavering commitment, both within and outside of our organization, in bringing the wonders of STEAM education to students in the Edmundston-Madawaska region. Kathleen’s impact on the lives of students and teachers is immeasurable, and her influence will continue to shape a bright future for our community.
Once again, congratulations and thank you, Kathleen Rice, for your extraordinary contributions.
Jeff Willson, Executive Director,
Brilliant Labs
