F or more than 35 years, the Timbuktu Academy at Southern University of Baton Rouge has provid ed science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) enrichment opportuni- ties to students from middle school through graduate level. Nationally recognized for its achievements, the Academy has received U.S. Presidential Awards for Excellence in both 1996 and 2002. Founded by professor Diola Bagayoko, emeritus director, the academy is built on his ‘Ten Strand Mentoring Model’ and features a holistic approach to recruit- ment, mentoring, and research participation for students in the College of Sciences & Engineering. The goal is to develop the next generation of highly-skilled STEM professionals. Current director Anthony D. Stewart is passionate about creating pathways to STEM education. “North Baton Rouge is my home,” says Stewart. “After attending college here, completing graduate school in Florida, and holding several academic research positions, I am back in North Baton Rouge as a professor and research scientist providing educational STEM opportunities. I am living a dream.” As director, Stewart frequently visits high schools to perform STEM demonstrations and participates in college recruiting events, interviews, and speaking engagements. The Timbuktu Academy offers several program components including a Summer Science Institute designed for high school students planning to major in a STEM field; an Undergraduate Research Program mentoring undergraduate students majoring in physics, mathematics, chemistry, biology, computer science, and/or engineer- ing; and an Educational Services Program providing educational outreach services to the broader community. Looking ahead, the Academy will host the Dolores Margaret Spikes Mathematics Bootcamp at Southern University Laboratory High School from June 1 through June 19. The camp is designed to promote emerging fields of science and engineering while rein- forcing the math skills necessary for success in these fields. As the Timbuktu Academy continues to inspire students, Stewart recalls a quote by Roman philosopher Seneca: “Luck is when preparation meets opportunity.” The Acade- my works to provide both.
The Face of STEM SUMMER CAMPS Timbuktu Academy at Southern University of Baton Rouge Anthony D. Stewart, Director PHOTO CREDIT: BUTTERFLIES OF HOPE PHOTOGRAPHY
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Faces & Places ® | Winter 2026 49
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