NEW ORLEANS – March 24, 2023 — 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 its 4th STEM Goes Red event in New Orleans on Friday, March 24th. The event, held at Xavier University, brought together more than 90 young women from Einstein Charter Middle School, Alice M. Harte Charter School, and Granville T. Woods Elementary School to participate in networking opportunities, speed mentoring, hands-on activities and breakout sessions with leaders from STEM industries.

STEM Goes Red is sponsored by Entergy, with additional local support from LCMC Health, COX Communications and JP Morgan Chase & Co. The goal is to deepen the pipeline of women entering STEM careers by exposing middle to high school age girls, but also all students, to the innovative strides women are making in fields like health care and engineering. The Greater New Orleans STEM Goes Red 2023 program featured hands-on activities like building and testing the strength of bridges made with popsicle sticks, discovering the science behind x-rays and learning Hands-Only CPR. 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 New Orleans area and beyond.

"Entergy is proud to partner with the American Heart Association on STEM Goes Red, aimed to empower and inspire young women to dream big and pursue careers in STEM,” said Patty Riddlebarger, Entergy vice president of corporate social responsibility. "Supporting opportunities such as STEM Goes Red means inspiring bright minds to lead and take action in the development of today’s economy and tomorrow’s future.”

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 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