Girl Power in STEM Virtual Symposium Fall 2020
Day 1: Science | Speaker’s Directory
Day 2: Technology | Speaker’s Directory
Day 3: Engineering | Speaker’s Directory
“I thought that the opportunity to interact with all of the sponsors/groups that attended this event. I feel that with this opportunity, students have the ability to make smarter decisions now.”
“I think the part I enjoyed the most was the motivation the speakers had and how positive they were when sharing their stories.”
“I think the best thing about this symposium was being able to speak to highly educated and formal speakers who have witnessed, first hand, the struggles of being a girl, pursuing a career in STEM.”
“I liked that we could stand up, explore and ask questions. I found what I want to do for the rest of my life and for that I thank this program.”
“The symposium was very informative and reassuring about the future of education and STEM. Listening to other stories gives me hope about my future career and fields.”
“I really enjoyed meeting many different women in different fields and levels of employment. It was nice hearing from women in positions I aspire to be in.”
“This allowed me to establish any amazing connections that I will utilize in my future!”
“I enjoyed the supportive atmosphere that all the women in the room portrayed for each other. I appreciate being able to attend events like this.”
“The encouragement was amazing and I will never forget the inspiration.”
“These women strongly impacted and influenced me as a young women to pursue my dreams in a STEM career.”
“I am very appreciative of the entire concept of this day. I think that this has really helped to guide me down my path.”
“What I mostly enjoyed about the symposium was the informational presentations. It really helped me understand and educated me for each career that was provided. I truly enjoyed this opportunity.”
Our History
The symposium, which began in 2018 is an opportunity to bring together professional women in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields to motivate local high school girls to pursue careers in those related fields. The goal is to bring the women and girls together and create an atmosphere for sharing information.
“It is an honor and a thrill to be able to host a valuable and innovative event like this for students in our community” said Cathy Colangelo, Executive Director of Greater Hazleton Partners in Education and organizer of the Girl Power in STEM Symposium. “The women that participate are leaders in their fields and I am excited for them to share their experiences, wisdom and challenges with our local high school students and other women in the community. It’s a unique opportunity for young women who may be interested in science, technology, engineering or math to be able to connect with women who are already paving a path in those fields.”
Part of the mission of Greater Hazleton Partners in Education (PIE), is to provide information and opportunities about future careers to students. According to an Executive Summary done by the US Department of Commerce Economics and Statistics Administration, the Office of the Chief Economist (OCE) noted that America’s STEM workforce is crucial for generating new ideas and providing critical thinking necessary in the modern economy. However, women continue to be underrepresented in STEM jobs and among STEM degree holders. Having that information, Colangelo noted that this is the perfect chance for PIE to collaborate with the local business and education community and show female students firsthand the types of careers, experiences and possibilities that are available to them.