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ExxonMobil Introduces Students to Exciting Side of Science at State Fair

Presentation and Science Show Ignite Interest in Students to Study Science, Explore Career Opportunities

As part of its ongoing commitment to science and math education, ExxonMobil will host a presentation by senior geologist Tabitha Hensley at the State Fair of Texas on October 11. The presentation will be held in conjunction with a performance of the ExxonMobil Let's Go Science show, which is part of the overall State Fair programming sponsored by ExxonMobil at The Women's Museum.

During the presentation, Hensley will share her academic and professional background with the students and speak about the importance of studying science and math and what young people can do to prepare for college study and future careers in these subjects. Hensley will also lead a Q&A session with attending students.

Following Hensley's presentation, students will participate in the ExxonMobil Let's Go Science show, a highly visual demonstration of complex scientific theories and laws that entertains students and creates a passion for learning. Professor Smart and Ms. Know-it-All intrigue audience members during the hour-long show by shrinking their heads, creating rockets and causing audience members' hair to stand on end.

"At ExxonMobil, we are committed to improving educational opportunities in math and science, particularly for women and minorities. Through efforts like the ExxonMobil Let's Go Science show, we hope to demonstrate to young people that science and math are exciting fields that are full of potential," said Truman Bell, senior program officer for education and diversity, ExxonMobil Foundation.

"Providing students the opportunity to meet and interact with geologists, engineers and other science professionals introduces them to a side of science they don't typically see in the classroom and motivates them to explore the possibilities of further study and science-related careers."

ExxonMobil supports the annual Texas Girls' State Fair at The Women's Museum as the exclusive science sponsor with a grant of $40,000. The Texas Girls' State Fair, which runs for three weeks during the State Fair of Texas, is designed to increase the confidence and self-esteem of girls ages 10-18 by showcasing the achievements, interests and potential of Texas girls. In addition to the ExxonMobil Let's Go Science show, the Texas Girls' State Fair also features science and math fair projects, teen fashion shows, performances by singers and bands, career pathway workshops and a college launch program.

About ExxonMobil Foundation:

ExxonMobil Foundation is the primary philanthropic arm of the Exxon Mobil Corporation in the United States. The Foundation and the Corporation engage in a range of philanthropic activities that advance education, health and science in the communities where ExxonMobil has significant operations. In the United States, ExxonMobil supports initiatives to improve math and science education at the K-12 and higher education levels. Globally, ExxonMobil provides funding to improve basic education and combat malaria and other infectious diseases in developing countries. In 2006, Exxon Mobil Corporation, its divisions and affiliates, and ExxonMobil Foundation provided $139 million in contributions worldwide, with $54 million dedicated to education. Additional information on ExxonMobil's community partnerships and contributions programs is available at www.exxonmobil.com/community2.

About The Women's Museum:

A Smithsonian affiliate, The Women's Museum: An Institution for the Future makes visible the unique, textured and diverse stories of American women. Using the latest technology and interactive media, the Museum's exhibits and programs expand our understanding of women's participation in shaping our nation's history and create a lively environment for dialogue and discovery.

Source: Exxon Mobil