Make a Difference Week, Oct. 24-27

Ann Kapusta, co-creator of Google’s Outer Space View feature, is on a mission to change the world through science, technology, engineering and math initiatives. And Tuesday, Oct. 24, she’ll be kicking off Cal State East Bay’s annual Make a Difference Week.

Kapusta previously worked as the operations manager for the largest biological research experiment on the International Space Station, and currently serves as the director of research at Vector Form, a company dedicated to inventing digital products that improve customer experiences. She is also a NASA Silver Snoopy Award recipient, an award given to fewer than 1 percent of NASA employees who have “significantly contributed to the human space flight program.” (The recognition includes a silver Snoopy astronaut lapel pin that’s been to space and back.)

Kapusta will share her experiences and the importance of STEM with the Cal State East Bay community from 10-11 a.m. in the University Union Multipurpose Room.

Here’s a look at what to expect the rest of the week:

Wednesday, Oct. 25: Coffee and Cocoa with Cops; Recreation and Wellness Center

9:30-11:30 a.m.: University police officers will speak with students, faculty and staff about the university’s immigration policy, and assure our community that students will not be targeted or questioned with respect to their immigration status at Cal State East Bay.

Thursday, Oct. 26: Pinterest Pioneers; University Union food court

12:15-1:15 p.m.: Students will create Halloween decorations and write letters to people participating in the programs offered by The Arc of Alameda, a nonprofit serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Friday, Oct. 27: Get Connected to Service Fair; University Union lawn

12:30-2 p.m.: Students will meet and connect with representatives from local community organizations in need of volunteers for programs throughout the East Bay.

Student Leadership Conference; University Union Multipurpose Room

All day: Representatives from various clubs and organizations will attend workshops and sessions catered to personal growth and volunteering.

Saturday, Oct. 28: Make a Difference Day; Recreation and Wellness Center

8 a.m.-2 p.m.: Participants will be dispatched to various volunteering sites and opportunities for a day of service.