Introduction
Philadelphia is home to a thriving array of Black-owned businesses that are reshaping the city’s cultural, educational, and business landscapes. Among these innovators stands Grand Hank Productions, Inc., a company at the unique crossroads of education, multimedia, and hip-hop, dedicated to igniting a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) in the next generation—especially in underserved communities. Founded by Tyraine Ragsdale, known professionally as “Grand Hank,” this company has set the pace for creative and engaging science instruction for over three decades.
About Grand Hank Productions, Inc.
- Name: Grand Hank Productions, Inc.
- Location/Address: 501 E Armstrong St, Philadelphia, PA 19144
- Phone Number: (215) 247-1109 / (267) 249-5613
- Email Address: contactus@grandhank.com
- Website: Grand Hank Productions, Inc.
- Google Map Directions: Get Directions
The Vision and Journey of Grand Hank
Grand Hank Productions, Inc. was launched in 1990 by Tyraine Ragsdale, a research chemist and science communicator whose personal journey—from inner-city Philadelphia to a career at Johnson & Johnson—fuelled his mission to bring STEM education to students who need it most. Recognizing that traditional science instruction failed to resonate with many urban students, Grand Hank melded his love of hip-hop with cutting-edge multimedia and live demonstration, creating shows and content that truly connect.
Through television (notably “The Science of Philadelphia” and “The Science Lab of Grand Hank”), live stage performances, and nationwide school engagements, Grand Hank Productions has directly reached over 10 million students, parents, and teachers. The company’s influence extends internationally, with major STEM education tours in places as far as South Africa.
Mission, Programs, and Initiatives
The core mission of Grand Hank Productions is to increase interest in STEM fields among minority youth and under-resourced communities. Its programming is built upon:
- Hip-hop-infused science demonstrations and shows
- Teacher training workshops and professional development
- Custom curriculum development and multimedia products
- Scholarships, internships, and hands-on science camps for students
A highlight project is the development of the new Grand Hank Science Center for Inner City Youth, a 10,000-square-foot educational center in Philadelphia set to become a premiere destination for immersive, hands-on science learning.
Signature Programs and US National Impact
From Philadelphia’s schools to national stages, Grand Hank Productions offers:
- Live Mega-STEM Events: High-energy learning experiences in schools, community centers, and sports arenas, fusing science demonstrations with rap, beatboxing, and audience participation.
- TV and Video Production: Creating engaging educational series and televised science shows, such as “The Science of Philadelphia.”
- Workshops and Curricula for Teachers: Equipping educators to use music and performance to inspire their classrooms.
- Black History STEM Field Trips: Celebrating African American inventors and scientists through live demonstrations and interactive curricula.
Legacy, Impact, and Recognition
Grand Hank’s vision is a response to the stark educational and resource gaps that exist in urban America. By reframing science as dynamic, artful, and accessible, the company has transformed countless young lives and inspired new career pathways.
Honors and recognitions for Grand Hank include:
- The George Washington Carver Award for educational innovation
- Presidential awards from the National Science Teachers Association
- Invitations from national and international science festivals
The impact of Grand Hank Productions, Inc. is not only measured by the magnitude of students engaged but in the powerful testimonials from educators, parents, and young learners who have “found science cool” through hip-hop-infused learning.
Community and Corporate Partnerships
The company collaborates with schools, media houses, nonprofit organizations, and civic agencies throughout the greater Philadelphia area. Additionally, its sister 501(c)(3) nonprofit, The Knowledge Factory, Inc., brings free and subsidized engagement programs to even more communities—locally and globally.
Grand Hank frequently partners with the School District of Philadelphia, community centers, and national events, leveraging sponsorships and grants aimed at reducing educational disparities.
Getting Involved and Contact Information
Whether you are an educator looking to enrich your classroom, a parent searching for science competitions or field trips, or an organization eager to support equitable education, Grand Hank Productions, Inc. stands ready to collaborate. The company welcomes invitations for speaking events, partnerships, and participation in local and national conferences.
Contact and Visit:
- Location: 501 E Armstrong St, Philadelphia, PA 19144
- Phone Numbers: (215) 247-1109 or (267) 249-5613
- Email: contactus@grandhank.com or events@grandhank.com
- Official Website: https://www.grandhank.com
- Google Map Directions: Directions to Grand Hank Productions Inc
Connect also via Grand Hank’s Facebook page and Instagram @grandhank.
Why Grand Hank Productions, Inc. Matters
A Role Model for Black Innovation in STEM
The presence and success of Grand Hank in Philadelphia delivers a vital message of opportunity and excellence for Black and minority youth, often underrepresented in STEM. By showing that science can be dynamic, creative, and socially relevant, Grand Hank Productions opens worlds of possibility.
Through television, live education, and digital expansion, the company not only informs and educates but also entertains in ways that break down barriers of intimidation and boredom that too often surround science learning.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Science Education
As Grand Hank establishes the Grand Hank Science Center, the company looks to increase the scale and accessibility of its programs—empowering Philadelphia’s youth and making Philadelphia a national leader in culturally relevant, equity-driven STEM education.
Grand Hank Productions, Inc. is not just a business; it’s a movement, a mission, and a Philadelphia success story—one that demonstrates how community, culture, science, and fearless creativity can come together to change the world.