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Astronaut Mae Jemison Teaches Science To Kids At Grand Central

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A portion of Grand Central Terminal was turned into an interactive science exhibit with a very impressive instructor Wednesday.

Astronaut Mae Jemison, the first female African-American in space, taught science to excited campers from the Police Athletic League, WCBS 880's Peter Haskell reported.

"What we have to do is maintain that excitement in schools by making sure that we have hands-on science," Jemison said.

Astronaut Mae Jemison Teaches Science To Kids At Grand Central

The event coincided with Bayer Corp.'s announcement that it has donated $50,000 to the PAL for science, technology, engineering and mathematics educational programs as part of its Making Science Make Sense initiative.

Jemison is Bayer's national Making Science Make Sense spokesperson.

"The most important, all scientists say, are their parents and their teachers," Jemison said.

Campers, including 10-year-old Shannelle, were getting a glimpse of their own potential.

"When I go up, maybe I could go to the moon and stuff," she said.

The PAL is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.

"On behalf of everyone at the Police Athletic League of New York City, I want to thank Bayer for this generous gift and for providing New York City kids the opportunity to meet a true American hero," NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton, the honorary president of the PAL, said in a news release. "Dr. Jemison, through her own accomplishments, is proof that people can achieve their dreams through focus, hard work and dedication."

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