BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Dec. 1, 2022 - The American Heart Association, the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all, recently hosted its first local “STEM Goes Red” event on Wednesday, Nov. 16 at the Shelby County Instructional Services Center in Alabaster.

More than 200 middle- and high-school girls from Shelby County schools attended the event, where they learned about STEM through hands-on activities and educational sessions led by local women in STEM careers. Speakers represented various Birmingham companies such as Regions, Shipt, Southern Company and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. The students were also taught how to perform Hands-Only CPR.

“Since heart disease continues to be the number one killer of women, ensuring more women are at the forefront of developing science, technology, education and math (STEM) solutions has never been more critical,” said Lizzi Willicott, executive director of the American Heart Association in Birmingham. “STEM is our future and as a science-based, health non-profit, is at the heart of who we are and what we do.”

“We are so thankful for the American Heart Association working with us to give this opportunity to the girls in Shelby County Schools,” said Bethany Ivey, development and community relations director for Shelby County Schools. “The girls enjoyed this fun-filled day learning about careers in STEM and interacting with the mentors in each field.”

Dr. Lynn Carroll, deputy superintendent of Shelby County Schools added, “District leaders appreciate the American Heart Association, CVS Health, Regions Bank and Southern Company for investing in the young ladies in Shelby County Schools by providing an opportunity to learn more about STEM-related careers. We know our students will do great things!”

As an extension of the Go Red for Women movement, STEM Goes Red aims to prepare female students for the nearly eight million science, technology, engineering and math jobs available worldwide. Not only are American students generally unprepared to fill these roles, just three in 100 female undergraduate students continue to work in STEM fields after graduating. The American Heart Association is committed to building a brighter future, stopping heart disease before it starts, and paving the way to healthier communities. Innovation and big thinking require young, emerging students – both men and women – who are committed to making change happen.

Go Red for Women is nationally sponsored by CVS Health. STEM Goes Red is locally sponsored by Regions and Southern Company. For more information on STEM Goes Red, contact BirminghamAL@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. 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.   

Media Contact

Josh Till, APR: josh.till@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

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