Our Story
Motor City S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) Foundation is the brainchild of Detroit-based graduate-level educated women who came together to fill the void in effectively engaging minority and underrepresented students in science and art education.
Dr. Alecia Gabriel and Deirdre Roberson, MSc have over 30 years of combined technical science with art education and experience. Passionate about making impacts, they hold executive positions in various professional and community-based organizations.
Our Mission
At Motor City STEAM Foundation, we believe that every child deserves the chance to explore their potential and pursue their dreams. We work tirelessly to create an inclusive and equitable educational ecosystem, where all young minds can flourish, innovate, and make a positive impact on their communities and beyond.
About MCSF
Motor City STEAM Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and empowering the next generation of innovators, creators, and problem solvers in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). Based in Detroit, MI, our foundation is committed to bridging the opportunity gap by providing underserved communities with access to high-quality STEAM education, mentorship, and resources.
Through strategic partnerships with schools, community organizations, and industry leaders, we deliver engaging and hands-on STEAM programs that spark curiosity, foster critical thinking, and encourage creativity among students. Our mission is to cultivate a passion for lifelong learning and equip young individuals with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world.
Areas We Serve
We proudly serve Southeast Michigan, with a strong focus on Detroit, Highland Park, and Hamtramck. These communities are at the heart of our mission to empower underserved students through engaging STEAM programs.
Dr. Alecia Gabriel, Ph.D.
EDUCATION
Cass Technical High School 2003
Xavier University of Louisiana B.S, Biochemistry, 2007
Louisiana State University Ph.D., Chemistry (Bio-Organic) , 2012
ACTIVITIES & AFFILIATIONS
Oakland University School of Engineering and Computer Science Advisory Board
National Organization for the Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
-
Dr. Alecia Gabriel is passionate about teaching and encouraging young people to go into STEM careers, but she knows the importance of the arts as well. She is excited to share how her background in science and the performing arts (classical vocal training, ballet, tap, jazz/modern dance, musical theater) propels innovative thinking in technical studies. She has experience in managing operations, project management, automotive and aerospace quality assurance, consulting, and of course, instructing students in K - Collegiate levels. She was recognized in Crain’s Detroit Business Magazine (2018) as a “Notable Woman in Manufacturing.” In her free time, she enjoys singing in front of a live audience, traveling, being a foodie, but also spending time with her friends, family, husband, and doggie, Chestnut.
Deirdre Roberson, M.S.
EDUCATION
Cass Technical High School 2004
Xavier University of Louisiana B.S, Chemistry, 2008
University of Detroit Mercy M. S., Chemistry (biochemistry & Medicinal), 2011
ACTIVITIES & AFFILIATIONS
Founder of EUMELANIN
National Environmental Health Association, Member
Michigan Environmental Health Association, Member
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
-
Deirdre Roberson is a born and raised Detroiter, and passionate about community involvement. In previous roles, Deirdre worked as an Environmental Specialist in Public Health and was the program manager for The STEMinista Project at The Michigan Science Center. An avid community supporter and southwest Detroit resident, Deirdre’s mentored local youth for over 10 years. She’s an advocate for increased funding and support for urban arts and science programs and has volunteered with Karmanos Cancer Institute, Alternatives For Girls, Developing K.I.D.S. and has been awarded for her volunteer work at the Michigan Science Center. In 2021 she gave a TEDx Detroit talk “Fashion as a Vehicle For Change." Deirdre is the founder of EUMELANIN a fashion brand designed to celebrate and empower black and brown people around the world by infusing science in every design. She enjoys reading, art museums, fashion and fast cars.