About Us

Curiosity.

Systems Thinking.

STEM-Informed Decision Making.

A short blurb about why we focus on these things. 

What is Growable?

Our Goal

The overall goal of Growable is to promote science literacy as a capacity to make effective decisions grounded in STEM-informed analyses of the big challenges coming our way – both personal and societal. We work through a variety of avenues, including working with PreK-12 educators and students, and public and private partners to achieve this goal. Growing a curious mindset is our top priority. We provide experiences that help individuals transform from consumer to creator while addressing locally relevant challenges.

Defining Science Literacy

We define science literacy as:

“An enhanced capacity, both at the individual and collective levels, to make decisions grounded in science-informed analyses of complex, real-world systems and their associated challenges.”

Part of the Growable mission is to inspire future generations to pursue careers to solve the challenges of an ever-expanding population. However, there is a bigger need to normalize critical assessment and thoughtful implementation of the creative solutions developed to meet societal needs. Everyone must have a voice in meaningful discussions around tough topics like GMOs and climate change. Thoughtful and informed voters will select leaders and policy decisions that align with long-term solutions. Knowledgeable consumers will vote with their dollars and make informed decisions related to the health and well-being of themselves and their families.

A Focus on FEWSS

At Growable, we believe in the power of curiosity! It’s the spark that makes learning an adventure. By diving into systems thinking, we help students connect the dots and see the big picture—whether it’s understanding how plants grow or how we impact our world. STEM-informed decision-making skills equip learners to make choices grounded in science, innovation, and possibility. We’re here to nurture curiosity, grow understanding, and cultivate a future of thoughtful, empowered learners!

Highlights on the Growable Journey

  1. Spring 2018

    IANR Science Literacy goes through some restructuring. Jenny and Erin start working together. The world will never be the same.

  2. Summer 2018

    The Garden TOOLS program is established. Lessons and training help upper elementary students and educators to take tech into outdoor learning spaces to support exploration and curiosity.

  3. Fall 2021

    Jenny and Erin rebrand IANR Science Literacy's K-12 efforts as Growable. 

  4. Spring 2022

    The Growable website goes live. 

  5. Fall 2023

    USDA awards funding for Cultivate ACCESS: Climate Resilience and Cultivate ACCESS to Data Science in Agriculture.

  6. Spring 2024

    Jenny and Erin co-teach their first course, Systems Thinking through Food, Energy, Water, and Societal Systems, and six undergraduate and graduate students' lives are forever changed.

The Growable Team

  1. Avatar for Jenny Keshwani
    Science Literacy Specialist Biological Systems Engineering University of Nebraska-Lincoln
    Work
    Address
    CHA 249
    Lincoln NE 68583-0726
    Phone
    Work 402-472-1413 On-campus 2-1413
    Email
    jkeshwani@unl.edu
  1. Avatar for Erin Ingram
    Community Engagement Coordinator Ctr for Science Math & Computer Ed University of Nebraska-Lincoln
    Work
    Address
    AVH 251
    Lincoln NE 68588-0131
    Phone
    Work 402-472-8979 On-campus 2-8979
    Email
    eingram3@unl.edu
    Social Media

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