BATON ROUGE, LA. – November 14, 2022 — Even as schools encourage young women and girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), women are still underrepresented among students with STEM majors and careers. Women, especially women of color, make up a small share of scientists and engineers. Of 100 female students working toward a bachelor’s degree, only three will work in a STEM job 10 years after graduation.
The American Heart Association, a global force for healthier lives for all, is working to close this gender gap in STEM careers. The Association hosted the inaugural Capital Area STEM Goes Red event in Ascension Parish on Wednesday, Nov. 9. The event, held at St. Amant High School, brought together more than 100 students, girls and boys, to participate in networking opportunities, speed mentoring, panel discussions, hands-on activities and breakout sessions with leaders from STEM industries.
STEM Goes Red is sponsored by Our Lady of the Lake, CF Industries, Entergy, and Providence Engineering. The goal is to deepen the pipeline of women entering STEM careers by exposing primarily high school girls, but also all students, to the innovative strides women are making in fields like health care and engineering. The Capital Area’s STEM Goes Red 2022 program featured a hands-on activity where students had to construct the tallest structure using marshmallows and toothpicks. Through these kinds of programs, which inspire young women to become scientific and medical innovators, the American Heart Association is furthering its goal to improve health outcomes in communities throughout the Capital Area and beyond.
“It’s such a joy to be part of STEM Goes Red this year,” said Ronda Matthews, supervisor of Career and Technical Education Ascension Parish School Board. “By the time they reach middle school, a disproportionate number of girls have already ruled out a career in STEM without even exploring the vast possibilities the field has to offer. It is my hope that this event will show these students that the sky is truly the limit for their goals and aspirations.”
STEM Goes Red is a part of the Association's Go Red For Women movement to reduce heart disease and stroke in women. By giving students access to leading employers and experts, they have the chance for an insider look at what they do. STEM Goes Red attendees gain firsthand experience, connect with inspiring professionals and learn about jobs across STEM fields. With support from local communities, employers and schools, STEM Goes Red helps smart young women uncover their potential. Click here to learn more.
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About Go Red for Women
The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women® movement is the trusted, passionate, relevant force for change to end heart disease and stroke in women all over the world. 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 15 years, Go Red for Women has provided a platform for women to come together, raise awareness, fund lifesaving research, advocate for change and improve the lives of all women everywhere. The American Heart Association's Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. Connect with us on GoRedforWomen.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-888-MY-HEART (1- 888-694-3278).
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Mary Fein; mary.fein@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org