Central Michigan Robotics Association Worlds Competition and Dow Championship 2026

Mt. Pleasant High School’s Rockefeller Robotics Team 8837 attended the 2026 FIRST Robotics Worlds competition, bringing more than 20 students and mentors to compete in the Milstein Division.  

Created to make a difference in the community, the Coyne Family Fund, held at the Community Foundation, was utilized to cover some costs associated with sending the high school team to the World’s competition. 

The competition took place from April 29 to May 2 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas. The Rockefellers ended with a 5-to-5 win-loss record and earned a final ranking of 44 out of 74. Competing in a large environment, connecting with teams from all around the world, and attending seminars allowed students to strengthen their skills and grow their networks. 

Framed photo of the Mt. Pleasant High School’s Rockefeller Robotics Team 8837 at the World’s Competition

Additionally, the Community Foundation helped select the Central Michigan Robotics Association for a 2026 Dow Championship Grant. The team is one of seven selected in Isabella County and will be randomly paired with one of the 72 teams competing. Each nonprofit is guaranteed a $4,500 grant, with the chance to earn additional funding by volunteering at the Dow Championship or participating in the tournament's auxiliary events. 

The Dow Championship golf tournament takes place at the Midland Country Club from June 8 to 16 and is open to surrounding counties, including Mt. Pleasant. This event reflects the tournament’s ongoing commitment to giving back to communities across the Great Lakes Bay Region and partners with local community foundations, including the Mt. Pleasant Area Community Foundation.  

The #TeamUp grant program prioritizes learning, and this week-long event offers a STEM Center, youth programming, and leadership events. There will be free daily youth activities, affordable ticket options, complimentary admission for kids 17 and under, and past or present military personnel. Find out more information about the event here: Championship | Dow Championship | June 8-14, 2026