This July, hundreds of students in grades 2–8 will participate in a free, hands-on summer chemistry academy offered across 14 different locations in Alexandria.
Through Be a Chemist™, Chrysalis Development Group Corporation is delivering five days of immersive, activity-based STEM learning that introduces students to real-world scientific careers through experiments, teamwork, and applied problem solving.
The program is offered at no cost to participating families.
Chrysalis is implementing this initiative as the exclusive Northern Virginia community partner for GSK’s Science in the Summer™ and The Franklin Institute, in collaboration with the City of Alexandria Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA), expanding access to hands-on STEM education across local neighborhoods.
The academy builds on last year’s Dr. To Be Academy (Be a Health Scientist™), which engaged approximately 450 local students in hands-on health science learning. This year’s chemistry-focused initiative continues that model by introducing a new scientific theme and giving students opportunities to explore multiple STEM career pathways through experiential learning.
Students will rotate through five chemistry-based modules:
Cosmetic Chemist: Exploring natural pigments and testing product safety through pH analysis
Materials Chemist: Designing and testing polymers and material properties
Medicinal Chemist: Investigating chemical formulations and dosage balancing
Forensic Chemist: Analyzing evidence using chromatography and scientific reasoning
Water Chemist: Testing water quality and exploring filtration and environmental safety
The academy is supported by professional instructors, adult volunteers, and teen mentors who work directly with students throughout the program.
“This program is about helping children see themselves in STEM careers early in life,” said Zohreh Khoshnamak, Founder and Executive Director of Chrysalis Development Group. “When students engage in real experiments and problem-solving, science becomes tangible. They begin to understand that the chemistry behind medicines, materials, water, and everyday products is something they can learn and contribute to.”
Volunteer & Sponsorship Opportunities
Chrysalis is currently seeking professional volunteers, educators, graduate students, and STEM industry professionals in chemistry, and related fields to support summer classroom sessions.
The organization is also inviting corporate sponsors and community partners to help expand access to materials, equipment, and programming sites for future cohorts. Sponsorship directly supports free STEM programming for local youth across Northern Virginia.
Following the summer academy, Chrysalis will host its 11th Annual Spooky Mad Science Expo on October 17(rain date October 24th), 2026, continuing its year-round STEM engagement programs for local families.
For more information about Be a Chemist™, volunteer opportunities, or sponsorship inquiries, contact [email protected]
About Chrysalis Development Group Corporation
Chrysalis Development Group Corporation is an Alexandria-based nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding STEM and STEAM education through experiential learning, workforce development, and community partnerships.