SUNY Fredonia students lead children through exploration of the stream table at the Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show.
Faculty, students, and alumni of the Department of Geology and Environmental Sciences helped bring hands-on geoscience education to the public.
The group participated in the 56th Annual Gem, Mineral and Fossil Show hosted by the Buffalo Geological Society at the Erie County (NY) Fairgrounds.
The annual show, held March 14 and 15, featured the theme “Ancient Life of New York” and brought together collectors, educators, and vendors from across the region to showcase minerals, fossils, jewelry, and lapidary arts. The event provided a family-friendly environment where visitors viewed displays, interacted with demonstrators, and learned about minerals, geology, and beyond.
The department organized interactive, hands-on exhibits that drew crowds of all ages. Highlights of the group’s installation included a dynamic stream table demonstration, allowing attendees to physically explore water erosion and sediment deposition, as well as stencil activities for young explorers. A series of crystals from the mineralogy collections was also on display, alongside several rocks from New York State and beyond, including a “Christmas rock” from Verpeneset, Norway (shared by Emerita Professor Jane Gilotti of the University of Iowa).
Adding an exciting prehistoric flair to the weekend, the team also showcased an ankylosaurus display and an engaging "brachiobot" assembly. The models bridged paleontology and interactive technique, successfully captivating younger attendees and families. The 3D printed models represent some of the results of a Costello Interplay Award to Dr. Thomas Hegna through the Fredonia College Foundation.
Current students Kyle Nowicki, Rylan Everson, Ava-Claire Boring, Olivia Shindler, and recent alumna Erica Cope helped stage the booth. The group’s participation in the show was supported by the Patrie Endowment for the Sciences, also through the Fredonia College Foundation.
Beyond community outreach, the weekend served as a valuable recruitment opportunity. Current students and faculty connected directly with prospective high schoolers from Western New York who expressed a strong interest in pursuing geology at the college level.
Associate Professor Wentao Cao noted that “Participating in these regional events is a crucial way to spark public interest in the sciences and showcase the vibrant, hands-on learning environment that defines the Fredonia experience. We appreciate our alumni and friends who stopped by our booth and welcome you to (re)connect with us in the future.”
