Cooke Teacher Receives 2019 iCON ‘Knowledge Builder’ Award
Posted on 10/02/2019
Cooke Magnet School STEM/ Drama teacher, Ms. Rebecca Voight, was recently recognized by the Illinois Biotechnology Innovation Organization for her contributions to the school’s STEM program.
Ms. Voight was announced as this year’s recipient of the The iCON Knowledge Builder Award, an annual designation honoring a K-12 educator demonstrating exemplary teaching while enhancing students’ understanding of biotechnology.
Ms. Voight was selected as this year’s winner in part for work in early STEM education, as well as her prolonged support of helping female students develop an interest in science. For the past three summers Ms. Voight has led the school’s annual STEMgirls Camp, a week-long summer camp giving female students the opportunity to go on field trips and engage with STEM professionals. Additionally, Ms. Voight started a Girl Code Club at Cooke last year, which has since extended to include Lego robotics.
“While I’m honored by this recognition, I’m not necessarily as excited for as me as I am that Cooke and Waukegan are being recognized for our dedication in STEM education,” said Ms. Voight. “I'm just proud to be a part of this program and thankful for iBio's initiative that has increased girls' interest in pursuing a STEM career.”
Ms. Voight was honored during the 13th annual iBIO iCON Awards Reception, which was held September 26 at the Chicago Botanic Garden.
