Help Arianna run the Boston Marathon!

If you've known me for longer than a few minutes, then you know I have a deep-seated passion for both running (sometimes unusually long distances) and science. What better way to bring them together than to run the iconic Boston Marathon for a charity that seeks to deliver innovative educational experiences that inspire students to explore and become lifelong learners?

The Hopkinton Education Foundation provides grants to support new and innovative educational programming — from STEAM to Social Emotional Learning —all aimed at creating a learning environment where students can thrive. It is vital to instill a love of learning early on in a child's development to foster curiosity and the courage to try new, and maybe scary, things.

At one point in my career, I was the lone female of approximately 100 service engineers in North America. While I did not have the traditional background for this role, my inherent curiosity in understanding how things worked got me hired, and my courage to try new things drove me to succeed in that role. If I can do something like that, so many (more) kids today could too!!

Beyond running and science, some of you may also know that I am an avid ceramic artist - what better way to balance all that running and science talk with something creative, right? Therefore, in celebration of the 126th running of the Boston Marathon, I will be making a one-of-a-kind bowl, vase, mug, (or other random round object!) for any donation of $126 or more! You'll have an Ari-special ceramic piece to call your very own :D

Thank you in advance for any sized donation; it all counts and means the world to me.