Co-Founders: Dr. Mandi Fraley Sonnenberg + David Reid

Founded in 2014 by Dr. Mandi Fraley Sonnenberg, Adjunct Professor at Rockhurst University and Director of STEAM Projects and Education at St. Teresa’s Academy, and David Reid, Education Design Lead and Principal at Multistudio, STEAM Studio began as a space that students of all ages could design, dream, and experience the elevated environment of a professional workplace. STEAM’s first and primary space is located within the architectural firm, Multistudio, where students are encouraged to dream big while surrounded by professional designers, city planners, and architects. In the five years of its presence in the Kansas City area, STEAM went from offering after school programming to expanding to field trips, electives, professional development, and a second space located on campus at Rockhurst University.

Meg Richardson brings nearly 20 years of experience in education to her role as Director of STEAM Studio, having served as a classroom teacher, Director of Special Education, and instructional coach. An award-winning educator — named Teacher of the Year in Oakland, CA and a national Teach For America award recipient — Meg is passionate about experiential learning, helping students tap into their creativity, and making space for innovation and curiosity. At STEAM Studio, she’s on a mission to guide learners toward confidence, creativity, and real-world problem solving…with a splash of fun.