100 Upstate girls explore STEM careers through immersive learning experience

GREENVILLE, S.C., Nov. 5, 2026 — The American Heart Association, a relentless force for longer, healthier lives, recently hosted 100 local middle school girls for a day of hands-on learning, mentorship and career exploration through the third annual Upstate STEM Goes Red event.

Held at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, the event was designed to spark interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). STEM Goes Red connected students with local professionals representing a wide range of careers, including engineering, medicine, chemistry, finance, technology and more. Throughout the day, participants engaged in interactive activities and demonstrations that highlighted how STEM professionals are solving real-world challenges and shaping healthier communities.

Although women represent nearly half of today’s workforce, they account for just over 29 percent of professionals working in STEM fields.[1] Research also estimates that only three out of 100 women pursuing a bachelor’s degree will work in a STEM job 10 years after graduation.[2]

“Science, innovation and discovery are at the heart of everything we do at the American Heart Association,” said Ashley Coleman, executive director for the American Heart Association – Upstate. “Through STEM Goes Red, we are helping young women explore careers that solve problems, improve health and drive progress in our communities. By introducing students to inspiring role models and hands-on learning opportunities, we are helping build the next generation of leaders and innovators.”

The hands-on experiences were led by leaders and volunteers with the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville, the American Heart Association, AFL, Challenge Island and Pinnacle Financial Group. Attendees also experienced a STEM Fair featuring additional activities and resources from local, STEM-related organizations, including Clemson University School of Nursing, Equip Studio, Furman Institute for the Advancement of Community Health, Interim Health, Milliken & Company, Prisma Health Med Ex Program, Prisma Health: Fertility Center of The Carolinas, SkinGlow MD, TD SYNNEX, ZOLL Medical Corporation, and several University of South Carolina School of Medicine student interest groups.

As a science-based organization, the American Heart Association is committed to advancing innovation and increasing opportunities for women in STEM fields, where diverse perspectives are essential to driving discovery and improving health outcomes.

”The enthusiasm and curiosity we see from participants each year is truly remarkable,” said Jennifer Springhart, MD, director of community engagement at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville. “We hope these experiences encourage students to keep asking questions, exploring new ideas and recognizing that there is a place for them in STEM careers and leadership roles.”

STEM Goes Red is part of the American Heart Association’s broader commitment to empowering the next generation of women leaders to change the future through access to role models, career pathways and experiential learning opportunities.

The event was sponsored by: Presenting Sponsor AFL and the Ray and Charyl Schroeder Grace Foundation. Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health.

The Upstate Go Red for Women Luncheon will be held on Friday, May 7, 2027, at ZEN Greenville. Visit heart.org/upstategored to learn more.

For more information about the Upstate Go Red for Women movement, contact Adelyn Nottingham at Adelyn.Nottingham@heart.org.  

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

About Go Red for Women® 

The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While nearly 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For 18 years, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedForWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721). 

For Media Inquiries:

Hunter Burton: hunter.burton@heart.org; 864.448.3799

Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org