FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE • April 1, 2026 • Syracuse, NY
MC Lyte Joins Syracuse Educators to Bridge the Gap Between Hip-Hop Culture and STEM
A Transformative Professional Development Experience
Bridging culture, creativity, and STEM education through a bold new learning model.
Power the Future: Hip-Hop x STEM Cypher
The Hip-Hop Education Center, in partnership with the National Grid Foundation, proudly presents a high-impact educator experience featuring MC Lyte.
- Culture-centered STEM learning
- Professional development for educators
- Workforce pathway innovation
- Community engagement strategies
Culture + Creativity + STEM = A stronger future.
Event Details
Date
Thursday, April 23
Thursday, April 23
Time
3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location
Community Folk Art Center
Community Folk Art Center
Address
805 E. Genesee Street
Syracuse, NY 13210
805 E. Genesee Street
Syracuse, NY 13210
Why It Matters
Student Engagement
Culture creates stronger connection to learning.
Culture creates stronger connection to learning.
Innovation
Creativity powers real STEM thinking.
Creativity powers real STEM thinking.
Access
Expands pathways into future careers.
Expands pathways into future careers.
Relevance
Learning reflects student identity and lived experience.
Learning reflects student identity and lived experience.
Featured Voices
MC Lyte
Hip-Hop Pioneer
Hip-Hop Pioneer
Dr. Robert Simmons III
Executive Director, National Grid Foundation
Executive Director, National Grid Foundation
Martha Diaz
Founder & President, HHEC
Founder & President, HHEC
Dr. Justis Lopez
Teaching & Learning
Teaching & Learning
Program Highlights
Live DJ Welcome Experience
Fireside Chat with MC Lyte
Hip-Hop + STEM Workshops
Networking & Resource Sharing
Action Steps for Educators
Community Collaboration
Leadership Voices
“Our goal is to support programs that spark curiosity and resilience.”
— Dr. Robert Simmons III
“We have to show young people their creativity belongs in every space.”
— MC Lyte
“We’re equipping young people with the mindset needed to thrive.”
— Martha Diaz