At Ford Elementary School, curiosity, creativity, and hands-on learning are celebrated every day through the Cheryl Musial STEAM Award. Established more than a decade ago in honor of former Ford Foundation President and Mopdog Chief Strategy Officer Cheryl Musial, the award recognizes outstanding students who demonstrate excellence, enthusiasm, and engagement in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM).

Continuing this meaningful tradition, Cheryl recently returned to Ford Elementary to recognize the 2026 honorees, personally presenting awards to students selected for their passion for learning, innovation, and academic excellence.

As part of the selection process, 5th grade students submitted applications sharing why STEAM is important to them, what they have accomplished through STEAM education, and why they believed they should be chosen to receive this year’s Cheryl Musial STEAM Award.

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This year’s recipients join more than 500 students who have been honored through the program over the years — a lasting tradition dedicated to encouraging creativity, critical thinking, innovation, and lifelong learning among young students.

Speaking before more than 100 students, parents, family members, and educators, Cheryl encouraged students to continue asking questions, exploring new ideas, and believing in their ability to achieve great things.

“Never be afraid to be curious,” Cheryl shared with students. “Keep asking ‘why,’ keep trying new things, and remember that mistakes are often how great discoveries begin.”

She also recognized the important role families, teachers, and caregivers play in supporting student success, reminding attendees that achievement is built through encouragement, opportunity, and community support.

“No one reaches their goals alone,” Cheryl said. “It takes a community of support, love, and encouragement.”

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The award reflects Cheryl’s long-standing passion for education and her commitment to creating innovative opportunities for future generations. As a driving force behind the Ford Elementary School Science/STEM Lab, Cheryl helped support a vision that continues to shape student learning experiences today. The Ford Elementary School Science/STEM Lab officially opened in 2009 through the generous support of the Ford families and the Ford Foundation.

Building on that strong foundation of educational excellence, Ford Elementary became the first STEM-certified elementary school in the Cobb County School District in 2015, earning recognition from the Georgia Department of Education and Cognia (formerly AdvancED). Today, the school proudly continues that legacy as a STEAM-certified school as of 2025.

Congratulations to all of the students recognized through the Cheryl Musial STEAM Award, as well as the educators, families, and community members who continue to foster a culture of discovery, innovation, and excellence at Ford Elementary each day.