WASHINGTON - eTradeWire -- Data literacy advocate and author Chandra Donelson participated in a fireside chat at Capitol City Robotics, where she spoke to an audience of 2nd to 12th-grade students about the importance of data, artificial intelligence, and innovation. Moderated by Ella Harris, a senior at DC International School and Chief of Staff & Program Manager at Capitol City Robotics, the discussion encouraged students to think critically about the evolving role of technology and its impact on the future.

Capitol City Robotics, a nonprofit offering STEM education to underrepresented students, hosted the event. It equips kids with robotics, engineering, and computer science skills, aligning with Donelson's data literacy mission.

Bridging the Classroom and the Future of STEM

Donelson, who co-authored The Data Detective at the Carnival, spoke about innovation and problem-solving. She shared personal insights, answered student questions, and encouraged attendees to dream big.

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One of the most memorable moments of the evening came when an 8-year-old student proposed an innovative solution for tracking space debris:

"We could put sensors on satellites that detect objects before impact and enable automatic maneuvering."

Donelson and attendees clapped in support, celebrating the student's courage to stand up and share his idea.

"The best ideas often come from those who are not afraid to ask, 'What if?' That's why programs like this [Capitol City Robotics] are so important—to show kids that their ideas, no matter how big or small, matter," Donelson said.

Q&A Highlights from the Fireside Chat

Q: What is your favorite food?
A: "Pasta, of course! It's so comforting, and you can make so many different dishes. If you change just one main ingredient, you get something completely new."

Q: What is your favorite part of The Data Detective at the Carnival?

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A: "The page with William on the Ferris wheel—that was a page he designed entirely on his own. Watching his creative vision take shape was a proud moment for me."

Q: What advice would you give to kids who want to be scientists or inventors?
A: "Just do it. Never underestimate the power of your presence or the impact of bold, unconventional ideas. Years ago, a young entrepreneur asked, 'What if we could create reusable rockets to lower the cost of space travel?' Not many people believed it could be done. He could have listened to the naysayers and given up, but instead, he followed his passion. And in 2015, that young man's company successfully landed a reusable rocket for the first time—completely reshaping the space industry. Everything seems technically impossible until it's done."