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About the Little Shop

Mission Statement

At Little Shop of Physics, we focus the creativity of Colorado State University’s diverse community of learners to ignite curiosity and inspire a lifelong love for science through engaging, hands-on experiences for learners of all ages and backgrounds. 

Our Vision

Student Powered

Our diverse team of interns and volunteers is the heart and soul of everything we do. They bring creativity and unique experiences, and we nurture their growth and support their professional development.

Science for All

We believe that everyone can understand and enjoy science. Our programs engage learners from all backgrounds and abilities in meaningful, accessible experiences that cultivate an inclusive and welcoming environment.

You Are a Scientist

Science is a process of exploration. Our participants actively learn and discover at their own pace, expanding their knowledge through captivating, hands-on activities.

Shaping Science, Sharing Science

Science thrives in a connected environment. We bring together diverse groups of learners, educators, scientists, and the public at large to build community and broaden opportunities for advancing STEM engagement. Through meaningful partnerships, we extend our reach and create lasting pathways for discovery and innovation.

Our Priorities

Student Powered

  • Engage CSU Students: Each year, we provide over 100 Colorado State University students with meaningful, hands-on experiences in science engagement, allowing them to spark their curiosity and inspire others.
  • Professional Growth: We emphasize continuous learning for our staff and students, with at least two days per year dedicated to professional development. Training topics include inclusive teaching, preparation for graduate school and careers, environmental and cultural awareness in science activities, first aid and emergency preparedness, creative ways to make captivating experiments, safe operation of equipment, and community-centered science engagement.

Science for All

  • Virtual Engagement: We create and share unique science videos and resources to reach a global audience, aiming to involve over 1,000 people virtually each year.
  • Reach Community Members: At events like our Annual Open House, we inspire curiosity in science for over 10,000 community members, providing engaging hands-on science experiences.
  • Environmental Responsibility: We are committed to sustainability, particularly in material sourcing for hands-on activities. We prioritize using every day, accessible materials and making environmentally responsible choices in our science kits and experiences.

You are a Scientist

  • Traveling Science Experience: Annually, we connect with 10,000+ preK-12 students by visiting schools and bringing interactive science programs directly into classrooms.
  • Visiting Groups on CSU main campus: We host 300+ learners as part of visiting classes and groups who participate in programs at CSU main campus, often in our Engagement Spaces and Inspiration Station.
  • Partner with Denver Students for CSU Spur: Each year, we collaborate with over 100 Denver-area students to co-create science exhibits for CSU Spur, encouraging creativity and scientific thinking.

Shaping Science, Sharing Science

  • Build a Diverse Science Community: We embrace the CSU Principles of Community to maintain and grow our dynamic network of students, alumni, teachers, informal science educators, and scientists who share our vision of making science accessible and fun for everyone.
  • Develop Culturally Relevant Activities: We create at least 20 new hands-on science activities or experiments annually, using everyday materials to ensure accessibility. Each activity is designed to be culturally responsive and engaging, enabling participants to see themselves reflected in our science experiences.
  • Engagement With Indigenous Communities: Our outreach commitment includes three extended trips to Native American reservations each year, where we collaborate with local communities to share hands-on science experiences. During each visit, we seek to respect and integrate local knowledge and traditions to create meaningful, relevant experiences for participants.
  • Support Teachers, Instructors, and Informal Science Organizations: Through professional development workshops, we equip over 20 teachers and instructors annually with active learning strategies and inclusive teaching approaches to enhance science instruction.