The American Association of University Women announced a pilot program designed to encourage high school girls to pursue education in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). With a particular focus on girls of color, AAUW STEMEd for Girls seeks to raise awareness, bolster confidence and expose students to the enormous and fulfilling career potential in these fields.
Supported by a grant from Arconic Foundation, AAUW STEMEd for Girls will pilot this summer as a series of free virtual interactive workshops that aims to debunk myths about pursuing and working in STEM fields. Girls will participate in collaborative learning and STEM-based problem solving and will develop personalized pathways to potentially pursue STEM majors and STEM careers. STEM Ambassadors, accomplished AAUW fellowships and grants alumnae and STEM experts, will facilitate discussions, offer guidance and mentorship and encourage parents and caregivers to support their daughters’ education and career journeys.
“There are still so few women of color in many STEM fields, both at the college level and in the professional world,” said Leshell Hatley, Ph.D., AAUW’s Director of STEM Programs. “We believe that by reaching out to girls in high school and showing them how exciting, interesting and lucrative these fields can be, they may be inspired to major in STEM in college and ultimately to join the STEM workforce.”
