Every spring, there is a night of pure CHAOS on the Texas Lutheran University campus—when kids of all ages gather, and shrieks of delight can be heard coming from the vicinity of the Student Activity Center.

The cause of all the excitement? Science—chemistry, to be precise—and in this instance, CHAOS stands for “Chemistry Happens with Adventurous Outstanding Scientists.” CHAOS Night, hosted by the TLU Pi Rho Chemistry Club, is a free event that raises awareness about the world of chemistry in a fun and interactive way. 

The theme of this year’s event, which takes place on Tuesday, March 31, is “The Chemistry of Health and Medicine,” and according to TLU Assistant Professor of Chemistry Dr. Jacques Jean-Francois, it will be a night that’s equal parts fun and education. “For the kid in us, CHAOS promises a good time through fun and scientifically sound experiments in the world of health and medicine,” said Jean-Francois. “The last COVID pandemic showed that despite leaps and bounds in technological progress and medicine, humans are still vulnerable to viral outbreaks. Covid took a huge toll on people of all ages with prior conditions, and this highlights the importance of cultivating strong health through good nutritional habits and an active lifestyle. With good health, medicine becomes a technological tool helping to better our quality of life.”

Some of the highlights attendees can look forward to include the chance to learn how TUMS antacid works, how to make wound dressings, how egg whites and protein function—not to mention an activity that involves bursting gummy bears! Plus, there will be goodie bags with lots of surprises for young scientists in attendance. 

Kids (and kids at heart) are encouraged to come to campus and get some hands-on experience with chemistry. The fun begins on Tuesday, March 31, at 6 p.m. in the Student Activity Center, located at 824 Fleming Drive, and wraps up at 8 p.m. This event is free and open to all.