I-66 Makes $10,000 Contribution To Support Pink Space Theory’s Programs
Bulk of 66 Express Outside the Beltway Operator’s Grant Earmarked for Nonprofit’s “Make Tech Pink” STEM Initiative
Manassas, Va. July 9,2025 – The already strong partnership between local nonprofit Pink Space Theory and I-66 Express Mobility Partners (I-66 EMP) strengthened even more today, when the operator of the 66 Express Outside the Beltway presented a check for $10,000 to the Northern Virginia organization in support of its Make Tech Pink programs providing educational opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Provided at no cost to pupils and schools, Make Tech Pink is a multi-week course that teaches computer coding to fourth- and fifth-graders from under-served communities across Prince William County. Make Tech Pink leverages the use of a programmable device called the Sphero BOLT Coding Robot to engage students with a variety of hands-on problem-solving scenarios.
“For the second year in a row, our friends at I-66 EMP have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to STEM education for our area’s elementary school students, particularly girls,” said Monica Nichols, founding president and CEO of Pink Space Theory. “We’re especially pleased that I-66 EMP strongly supports Make Tech Pink, which is one of our flagship programs. We could not reach as many students as we do without contributions from wonderful partners like I-66 EMP.”
Today’s contribution is the latest development in the partnership between I-66 EMP and Pink Space Theory. Last July, I-66 EMP provided $6,500 in supportive funding of the Make Tech Pink program.
In addition, the roadway operator has teamed up with the nonprofit for a pair of collaborative events in recent months, including a snowplow design workshop last November at I-66 EMP’s Manassas headquarters, and Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day at Dumfries’ Swans Creek Elementary School in February.
“We believe students who engage in STEM subjects are better prepared for careers of the future. That’s why supporting STEM education is a major part of our nonprofit partnerships,” said Nancy H. Smith, I-66 EMP’s director of corporate affairs. “We’re more than happy to support the work of Pink Space Theory as they inspire local kids to explore the possibilities of computer science, engineering, and technology.”
About Pink Space Theory:
As a mobile makerspace providing hands-on, 21st-century learning experiences, Pink Space Theory creates space for students to love learning about the subjects of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics). Pink Space Theory operates more than a half-dozen programs designed to inspire, train, and transform under-represented and under-served students to become the next generation of high-tech leaders. For more information and to enroll in Pink Space Theory’s programs, visit www.PinkSpaceTheory.org.
About the 66 Express Outside the Beltway:
Part of VDOT’s Transform 66 Outside the Beltway program, the lanes of the 66 Express are a transformative 22.5-mile multi-modal mega-project featuring advanced dynamic-tolling systems to keep traffic flowing at all times. The lanes provide Northern Virginia commuters, businesses, and mass transit with a reliable option to move people, goods, and services throughout the I-66 corridor, allowing drivers to Sit Less, Live More. Visit www.Ride66Express.com to learn more, and keep up with the 66 Express on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
About I-66 Express Mobility Partners:
I-66 Express Mobility Partners (EMP) is a consortium of leading infrastructure companies including Cintra, Meridiam, and APG. In public-private partnership (P3) with VDOT, I-66 EMP is contracted to operate the 66 Express Outside the Beltway through 2066. Connect with I-66 EMP on LinkedIn.
