Community Donation :
GLAD Academy donation for STEM and Cultural initiatives
Naperville Central High School
Located in Naperville, Illinois, it has around 2,551 students in grades 9-12. As the captain of the Science Olympiad team and Science Bowl teams, Nina Zhan (Founder and President of GLAD), noticed the lack of diversity in these fields. Many talented students, particularly those from underrepresented groups, are excluded from these opportunities due to cultural stereotypes and lack of representation, inspiring her to donate and make an impact.
Kennedy Junior High School
GLAD Academy has contributed funding to STEM initiatives, providing crucial support for educational programs, that inspire the next generation of innovators. GLAD has helped expand access to quality STEM education and foster a culture of scientific curiosity. Located in Lisle, Illinois, Kennedy Junior High School, a magnet school with approximately 931 students in grades 6-8, benefits from a robust Gifted & Talented program and the Project Lead The Way curriculum, fostering a strong foundation in STEM education.
Madison Junior High School
GLAD supported STEM initiatives to provide underrepresented students with tools and opportunities to explore STEM fields, cultural initiatives to promote inclusion/address prejudices such as microaggressions, and to ensure that economically disadvantaged students are not left behind in pursuing their academic dreams.
Meadow Glens Elementary School
Nina first began Science Olympiad in elementary school and was nominated as the Mission Maker of the entire school district. Her principal stated, “Nina is a positive role model for all students. She leads by example and her actions. Further, she is intrinsically motivated to make a difference in the world. She exemplifies characteristics that show strength beyond the classroom and are essential for success in our global world”. Nina believes that funding STEM and Social Studies programs at Meadow Glens will foster early interest in STEM and eliminate racial bias for future generations.
Donation to Libraries in the Community
GLAD Academy donated 1285 bilingual books as part of a cultural initiative.
These audiobooks are narrated and translated by Nina Zhan, GLAD Academy’s Founder and President, an official paid audiobook narrator with a track record of elevating books to bestseller status. This initiative will enrich linguistic diversity and access
ibility in Naperville, home to the No. 1 Public Library in the U.S.
National Donations:
GLAD Academy donated thousands of dollars for Cultural initiatives
Securing RACIAL EQUITY and ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY for ALL
To end racism, homophobia, and LGBTQ/SGL bias and stigma — NJBC
GLAD donatied for enhancing & Empowring the Lives of the Arab American Community.
GLAD donated to create and enhance opportunities for girls who have been displaced globally by conflict and persecution
GLAD donated to the Autistic People of Color Fund for Community Reparations
