University Times

Pitt's chemistry department has received two grants totaling $20,337 in support of its chemistry van program.

Part of the department's community outreach effort, the chemistry vans are mobile chemical laboratories and are used to perform experiments for school children in an effort to interest and excite them about science.

A $15,000 grant from the ARCO Chemical Co. will be used to support van visits to middle school science classes primarily in Beaver County. An additional $5,337 from the charitable trust committee at PNC Bank will be used for teacher training and chemical demonstrations.