JACKSON, Miss., Oct. 2, 2026 — The American Heart Association, a global force for a world of healthier lives for all, will host their third annual STEM Goes Red experience to inspire and empower Jackson public middle school girls to pursue a career in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math). The program will arm them with tools and resources to pursue their dreams and live healthy lives. Students will learn from industry leaders and participate in hands on activities at the event which will be from 9:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Monday, October 5 at the Mississippi Children’s Museum.

“The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement recognizes that women are grossly underrepresented in STEM fields across the board,” says Jennifer Hopping, executive director, American Heart Association, Jackson. “STEM Goes Red draws from the Association’s strong legacy of science, education and discovery to help inspire young women into rewarding STEM careers.”

The event keynote speaker is Jana Talley, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Mathematics at Jackson State University.  A native of Kansas City, MO, she is a graduate of Alcorn State University. There she received degrees in Mathematics and Secondary Mathematics Education. She earned her Ph.D. in Mathematics with a specialization in RUME from the University of Oklahoma. In 2010 she joined the Department of Mathematics at Jackson State University. As a tenured, associate professor, Dr. Talley partners with researchers and professors across the country to cultivate opportunities for underrepresented students to enter and thrive within STEM careers.

As cardiovascular disease continues to be the No. 1 killer of women, ensuring more women are at the forefront of developing science, technology, engineering and math solutions has never been more imperative. Unfortunately, a troubling gender gap exists in STEM, from the lack of women pursuing STEM-related degrees to the number of women in STEM careers. In addition, out of every 100 female undergrads, only 12 will graduate with a degree in STEM and only three will continue on to work in STEM fields. Although women fill close to half of all jobs in the U.S. economy, they hold less than 25 percent of STEM jobs.

“Ergon is honored to help empower the next generation of female leaders and innovators by providing pathways for future careers in STEM,” said Bonnie Chapman, chemical engineer and  Ergon’s vice president of product stewardship. “As a proud sponsor of STEM Goes Red for the third consecutive year, we're excited to support this action-packed, interactive event where students can learn, celebrate the diversity that drives innovation, and take bold steps toward their futures.

STEM Goes Red can change the impact of heart disease by aspiring young women and successful female leaders to create a platform for positive change relating to innovation, technology, health and wellness in women. The STEM community in Jackson has an opportunity to help elevate tomorrow’s female leaders to drive groundbreaking innovation.

Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with STEM Goes Red locally sponsored by Ergon, Entergy, Mississippi Baptist Medical Center, Story Financial Partners, and TrueCare.

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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).