Adelaide STEMfooty boss Katie Gloede has been named a finalist in South Australia’s STEMM Educator of the Year award.

Gloede, who has been at the Crows for two years, is finishing a PHD in education at the University of South Australia and has led the Crows’ STEMfooty program since 2019.

On Tuesday, the Adelaide Football Club hosted 100 students from Brighton Primary School with SA Chief Scientist Professor Caroline McMillen and Innovation and Skills Minister David Pisoni in attendance. 

The students ran presentations inspired by the STEMfooty program and Gloede’s influence.

“It’s incredible to see what they’ve taken away from the program,” Gloede said.

“I’ve seen first-hand how hard they have worked… to watch them present today was a truly rewarding experience.

“To be named as a finalist in the STEMM Educator of the Year award is the icing on the cake.”

Thanks to partners Optus and the Crows Foundation, STEMfooty has continued in 2020 despite the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.

Crows Foundation manager Louise McDonald said Gloede’s nomination was well deserved.

“Katie has worked tirelessly for years to ensure the STEMfooty program is the best it can be,” McDonald said.

“To be named a finalist is a testament to her skills and who she is as a person.

“The Crows Foundation’s mission is to use the power of sport to engage, enrich and inspire children’s lives and STEMfooty does just that.”

Gloede was one of three finalists named with the winner set to be announced in December.

The award recognises educators who are critical to the success of STEMM (science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine) education in South Australia.